Bay Islands College of Diving

One of Utila's oldest PADI 5-Star Career Development Centers since 1990, integrated with Utila Lodge for comfortable dive-stay packages.

Bay Islands College of Diving (BICD) is a pioneering PADI 5 Star Career Development Center on Utila, established in 1990, making it one of the oldest dive training institutions in the Bay Islands. Located on Calle Principal in the heart of Utila Town, BICD is part of the Utila Lodge complex, combining dive training with comfortable on-site accommodation.

The 'College' name reflects BICD's educational focus — this is a center that takes professional development seriously. Their Career Development Center status means they train and certify new PADI Instructors, and their alumni have gone on to establish dive operations across the Caribbean, Central America, and beyond. The quality of professional training is consistently rated among the best in the region.

Recreational courses from Open Water through Advanced Open Water and specialty certifications are delivered with the same attention to quality that characterizes their professional programs. Small class sizes, experienced instructors, and excellent training facilities including a pool make BICD a top choice for students who want thorough, professional instruction.

Fun diving is equally excellent, with daily boat trips to Utila's spectacular reef sites. The north shore walls, pinnacles, and coral gardens offer incredible diversity, and the chance to encounter whale sharks adds an extra dimension of excitement during migration seasons. The associated Utila Lodge provides comfortable accommodation with air conditioning, hot water, and a restaurant — a step up from Utila's typical backpacker hostels.