Who Might You Meet Underwater? 4 Amazing Marine Animals You Could See While Diving in Puerto Rico

There’s something magical about slipping beneath the surface and entering a whole new world. While every dive in Puerto Rico is an adventure, there are moments that take your breath away—and many of those involve a surprise encounter with marine life.

At Aquatica Underwater Adventures, our dive sites in Aguadilla are home to a colorful cast of ocean creatures, from tiny reef fish to majestic sea turtles. And while we can’t guarantee who you’ll meet (the ocean loves to keep secrets), here are four incredible marine animals you might encounter on your next dive with us.


Sea Turtles

There’s nothing quite like your first turtle sighting underwater. Graceful, calm, and completely unbothered by your presence, sea turtles are a favorite guest on many of our dives.

You might spot:

  • Green sea turtles, cruising slowly through the reef
  • Hawksbill turtles, with beautifully patterned shells

These ancient creatures often hang out in shallow reef areas, resting on coral or gliding effortlessly through the water.


Spotted Eagle Rays

One word: majestic.

Spotted eagle rays are truly stunning, with their bold white spots, long tails, and wide wingspans that make them look like they’re flying through the water. When one swims past, it’s like watching a dream in motion.

They tend to show up unexpectedly in deeper sections of the reef or open sand channels—and when they do, it’s a moment you’ll never forget.


Tropical Reef Fish

Sometimes the most magical moments come in the tiniest packages. Puerto Rico’s reefs are bursting with brightly colored tropical fish, each one adding its own personality to the underwater scene.

Common favorites include

  • Parrotfish, with their vibrant scales and beak-like mouths
  • Angelfish, bold and beautiful with flowing fins
  • Sergeant majors, darting around in lively little schools

These fish often surround you on your dive, making the whole experience feel like you’re swimming through an aquarium—only better.


Seahorses

Tiny, delicate, and surprisingly good at hiding, seahorses are a diver’s treasure.

They often cling to soft coral or sea grass and are best spotted when you slow down and let your eyes adjust to the reef’s rhythm. Finding one takes patience—but it’s always worth it.

Our guides know where to look, and if there’s one around, they’ll help you spot it.


Want to Dive with These Ocean Locals?

The marine life in Puerto Rico is vibrant, diverse, and full of surprises. Whether you’re doing a Discovery Scuba Dive or already certified, every dive is a chance to meet someone new.

👉 Book your dive with us here
👉 Have a creature you’re hoping to see? Let us know!


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Lelah Wright

Owner / Manager / human Resources

Lelah is a seasoned business manager originally from Georgia, with extensive experience in overseeing operations and driving organizational success.

Currently handling all human resources and backend operations, Lelah plays a key role in the smooth functioning of the team.

In addition to her professional expertise, Lelah is a successful entrepreneur, owning a thriving henna business in Rincon and a jewelry business named Spiral Smith.

Outside of business, she is an accomplished drummer and the organizer of a popular monthly drum circle in Aguadilla, which has become a beloved community event.

Lelah’s combination of business acumen, creativity, and leadership makes her a dynamic and integral part of the Aquatica team.

Damian Wright

Owner / Instructor

Damian is originally from Massachusetts. He has worked on tug boats and captained fishing boats for most of his life. He is a dedicated ocean enthusiast and waterman.

With a lifelong connection to the sea, he holds certifications as both a PADI and SSI instructor, sharing his passion for diving with others.

Damian combines his deep knowledge of the ocean with a strong commitment to safety, ensuring memorable and enriching experiences in the water.

John Bradshaw

Instructor

Originally born in Utah, I moved to Puerto Rico with my family when I was 13 and fell in love with the ocean.

I started scuba diving in 2021, and after earning my Open Water certification, I never looked back.

Now, as a Dive Master at Aquatica since December 2023, I love sharing my experience with others and helping them discover the underwater world.

Josue Varela​

Owner / Instructor

Josue was born and raised in Isabela, Puerto Rico. He is an Army Veteran and an owner of Aquatica Underwater Adventures.

While serving in the Army in Roatan, Honduras, Josue obtained his SSI Open Water Certification which fueled his obsession with the ocean.

After returning to Puerto Rico, Josue continued his dive education becoming a top SSI Open Water and Specialty Instructor.

He is also Aquatica’s resident equipment service technician.

Estefania Ojeda Otero

Instructor

¡Hola! I’m Estefanía — born and raised in Puerto Rico, where my love for the ocean (especially sharks!) started early on. That passion led me into freediving and scuba diving, and I quickly fell in love with exploring the underwater world.

I started sharing my adventures on social media, and now I’m the social media manager at Aquatica Dive Shop. I love capturing the special moments our guests experience on tours and courses, and turning them into lasting memories.

Gina Burns

Divemaster Instructor

Gina has always had a love and curiosity for all things pertaining to the ocean world.

Born and raised in Brooklyn, New York, her fascination with the water began with many childhood weekends spent at Coney Island and Rockaway Beach. She now resides in Aguadilla, Puerto Rico with her two pugs, Mia and Ava.

Gina has been an SSI Open Water and Specialty Instructor since 2021, teaching Boat Diving, Enriched Air Nitrox, Night & Limited Visibility, Perfect Buoyancy, Science of Diving, Scooter/DPV Diving, Diver Stress & Rescue, Navigation and Marine Ecology.

Roean Wright

Instructor

Hi, my name is Roean. I also go by RD. My hobbies are cliff jumping,scuba diving, and playing the bass guitar.

I am originally from the Seattle Washington area, and I have lived here since 2018.

PADI vs. SSI: Which Certification is Right for You?

At Aquatica Underwater Adventures, we offer both PADI and SSI Open Water Diver certifications, giving you the flexibility to choose the training agency that best fits your needs. Both certifications are internationally recognized and allow you to dive up to 60 feet (18 meters) worldwide. The main difference comes down to personal preference and training style.

What’s the Difference Between PADI and SSI?

Both programs cover the same essential scuba skills, ensuring you receive high-quality training that prepares you for a lifetime of diving. However, the way the courses are structured differs slightly:

  • PADI follows a more standardized approach with performance-based milestones.
  • SSI offers a more flexible learning experience that allows students to progress at their own pace.
  • Both certifications are equally recognized at dive shops and resorts worldwide.

Choosing the Right Certification for You

Your choice between PADI and SSI may come down to factors like learning style, pricing, and personal preference. No matter which program you choose, you’ll receive expert instruction, small class sizes, and a fun, hands-on learning experience.

Still Have Questions?

We’re happy to help you decide which certification best suits your goals. No matter which path you take, our experienced instructors will guide you every step of the way.

Ready to start your underwater journey? Contact us today!