I do not know the Paradise people personally, though they are the next shop over. I dont like to badmouth competition, so I will not indulge in any speculation. I can however provide some facts. Here goes
All shops on the Island, except 2, are members of a Dive Coalition. This group sets minimum prices, as well as some other standards. Paradise is one of those two shops, and is cheaper than other shops, which are already pretty cheap. Buyer beware, you often get what you pay for in diving. I do know that they rarely, if ever, visit the north side. We have had customers here who dove with them for a week and never left the harbor area, despite the availability of dozens of other sites.
In the last couple of week, their boat has broken down several times and had to be towed in.
We have recieved several 'refugees' from Paradise in the past week or so, with a variety of complaints, from diving the same nearby sites over and over to mice in the lodging rooms. I spoke with these people personally, these are their comments, not mine, as I have never stayed there, or dived with them.
I cannot speak for their gear, never seen it. OW course there costs 165 dollars total, all inclusive, lodging and 2 fun dives included. 209, with either lodging or 2 fun dives is standard on the island. You may find this telling.
There are many other shops on the island catering to a variety of needs. Some are better than others, most are fine, just find one you like personally. As an aside, all shops advertise North side dives, but most will only go with a minimum number of divers. Our shop will go every day, weather permitting, even if there is only one diver on the boat. I believe that only one or two other shops will do this.
I have tried to present facts as facts, and hearsay as hearsay. I hope this info helps, if you have any more questions, just ask.
Finally, about Utila in general, it has a reputation for 'renegade' diving, lack of standards etc.... In years past this rep was well deserved, less so now, there are many of us trying to raise the bar. There are still throwbacks though.
Caveat Emptor!!!!!
I really have no personal interests here, I am new to the island, and we are busy, I dont need to poach customers.
More info about Utila can be found at aboututila.com
