Diving atOdyssey Wreck (Honduras)
Initially a working cargo ship, the Odyssey Wreck now serves as Roatan’s largest artificial reef, drawing divers to its immense structure. Sunk intentionally in 2002, this formidable freighter provides an extensive exploration opportunity off the island's north coast. Its transformation from active vessel to a thriving underwater habitat offers a compelling dive, distinguishing it as a significant landmark below the surface.
Evening condition tracking at Odyssey Wreck features an air temperature of 28°C. We have recorded wave heights measuring 1.3 m during this period. These figures outline the environmental parameters currently present.
Dive Site Location & Key Facts
Everything you need to know about this dive site.
Dive Site Overview
Resting upright on the sandy bottom off Roatan’s north coast, the Odyssey Wreck is an impressive 300-foot-long cargo ship. It was deliberately scuttled in 2002 as an artificial reef, now found at a maximum depth of approximately 35 m (115 ft).
Over time, the hull has broken into three distinct pieces; the stern section leans roughly 30 degrees to its starboard side, while the bow lists almost 90 degrees in the same direction. The stern's highest points rise into recreational depth ranges, offering multiple penetration points for appropriately certified divers, including access via interior stairs to various levels. Meanwhile, the bow section is positioned closer to the natural reef wall, with its upper parts also within typical recreational diving limits.
Although the central part of the ship has collapsed, the bow remains a prominent, upright feature, providing striking views of the surrounding reef wall and nearby sand patch, where macro life can sometimes be spotted. Dedicated holes were cut into the ship’s sides prior to sinking, easing access for exploration, allowing for more light inside key areas.
Odyssey Wreck
Conditions are Moderate
DIVE WARNING
High Wind Advisory (42km/h). Unsafe surface.
Current conditions near Odyssey Wreck show 28° air, 28° sea temperature, 1.6 m waves, and 42 km/h wind. Forecast data is refreshed regularly to ensure accuracy.
Best Time to Dive
Optimal diving conditions often coincide with periods of calmer seas and clearer visibility in Roatan. From August through October, the dive scores generally rate as 'Good', with average wave heights typically below 0.9 meters and wind speeds decreasing to around 25-28 km/h. During these months, air temperatures are at their highest, averaging 28-29°C (82-84°F), which contributes to comfortable surface intervals. Rain activity is moderate during this period, ranging from 3 to 11 millimeters per month. Conversely, the early months of the year, particularly January to April, see higher wind speeds and wave activity, potentially influencing surface conditions and underwater visibility.
PEAK SEASON SCORE
Scores combine air & water temps, waves, wind & rainfall for overall conditions.
BEST MONTHS TO DIVE
Monthly records compiled from satellite and marine observation nodes over the last 3 years. Data provided by Open-Meteo and MET Norway.
Dive Experience & Conditions
Exploring the Odyssey Wreck demands an appreciation for depth and the complexities of wreck diving. The main deck of the ship sits at approximately 33-35 m (110-115 ft), with its highest points, such as the stern and bow, rising into shallower sections. Due to its substantial depth and the possibility of penetration, this site is generally considered suitable for advanced divers or those with specific wreck diving certification. Water temperatures generally stay warm throughout the year, often within 27-29°C (81-84°F). While currents are not consistently reported as strong, they can vary, so divers should remain aware of their surroundings. Visibility typically ranges from good to excellent, but it may temporarily decrease following heavy rainfall or strong winds.
Dive Difficulty & Safety Guidelines
Navigating this large freighter requires careful planning due to its depth and fragmented structure. Divers should possess advanced open water certification at minimum, and a wreck diving specialty is strongly recommended for any internal exploration. The broken sections of the hull and the internal layout, including leaning areas of the stern and bow, present potential overhead environments and navigational challenges. Always carry a reliable underwater flashlight for any penetration, even in seemingly open areas, to ensure proper illumination and orientation. Planning gas consumption carefully is essential for a deep dive of this nature, and many divers find enriched air (Nitrox) beneficial for extending bottom time within no-decompression limits.
Recommended Equipment
Overhead / entanglement risk. Wreck penetration requires proper training.
- Dive Computer
- DSMB
- Primary & Backup Lights
- Wreck Reel
- Cutting Tool
This gear list is based on verified equipment signals for Odyssey Wreck, Honduras. Always confirm final gear choices with your dive operator, guide, or liveaboard.
Recommended Dive Suit
With water temperatures around 28°C (83°F), many divers find a 2-3mm shorty or light wetsuit provides comfortable protection.
Local conditions can vary slightly across different parts of the same dive site.
Conditions are expected to stay fairly consistent in the days ahead.
Emergency & Medical Support
Essential information to help you plan your dive trip to Odyssey Wreck.
Hyperbaric chambers are a critical part of dive safety infrastructure. Availability varies significantly by region, and not all dive areas have immediate access.
Before diving, it's recommended to:
- confirm nearest medical facilities
- check emergency procedures with local dive operators
- ensure dive insurance covers evacuation if required
Divers Alert Network
Diving emergency assistance available through DAN World.
+1-919-684-9111- 24/7 emergency hotline
- Diving medical assistance
- Evacuation coordination
Emergency contacts are provided for reference. Always verify local emergency services before diving.
Marine Life at Odyssey Wreck
Immediately upon approaching the Odyssey Wreck, divers often observe robust schools of fish congregating around the structure. Schoolmaster snappers, large black groupers, and barracuda are common sightings, using the wreck as shelter and a hunting ground. Closer inspection of the ship's surfaces reveals encrusted Atlantic thorny oysters and the occasional green moral eel peeking from crevices. Large midnight parrotfish graze on the artificial reef growth, contributing to the site's vibrant ecosystem. Additionally, divers have reported seeing tuna and various sharks patrolling the perimeter of the wreck, underscoring its role as a significant marine habitat.
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Dive Centers Near Odyssey Wreck
Working Hours
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Nearest Airports
Nearest airports to help plan travel to this dive area.
Search Flights
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Search Flights on ExpediaFrequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum depth of the Odyssey Wreck?
The Odyssey Wreck rests on a sandy bottom at a maximum depth of approximately 35 m (115 ft). However, sections of the wreck, such as the stern and bow, rise significantly, with their highest points reaching around 18-22 m (60-73 ft).
When was the Odyssey Wreck sunk?
The Odyssey was intentionally sunk in 2002. It was donated to the island after a fire damaged its engine room and living quarters, then prepared as an artificial reef.
Is the Odyssey Wreck suitable for beginner divers?
Due to its depth and the potential for penetration, the Odyssey Wreck is generally recommended for advanced open water divers or those with specific wreck diving certification. Basic open water divers might find the depth challenging.
Are there opportunities for wreck penetration?
Yes, the stern section of the Odyssey Wreck provides multiple penetration opportunities, including interior stairways accessing different levels. However, such exploration requires proper training, experience, and specialized equipment.
What kind of marine life can be seen at the Odyssey Wreck?
Divers frequently encounter schools of schoolmaster snappers, large black groupers, and barracuda. Other common sightings include large midnight parrotfish, green moral eels, and encrusted Atlantic thorny oysters. Tuna and sharks have also been observed around the wreck.
Is enriched air (Nitrox) available for diving the Odyssey Wreck?
Yes, enriched air is typically available at dive centers servicing the Odyssey Wreck. Using Nitrox can be beneficial for managing no-decompression limits on a deeper dive like this.
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Odyssey Wreck
Conditions are Moderate
DIVE WARNING
High Wind Advisory (42km/h). Unsafe surface.
Current conditions near Odyssey Wreck show 28° air, 28° sea temperature, 1.6 m waves, and 42 km/h wind. Forecast data is refreshed regularly to ensure accuracy.