Dive Site: Jack Neal Point

About Jack Neal Point

Jack Neal Point is a captivating dive site located off the western coast of Roatan, Honduras, nestled within the larger Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System, the second-largest barrier reef globally. This particular site is characterized by healthy reef structures, including expansive coral gardens and impressive drop-offs, showcasing the rich biodiversity of the Caribbean. The topography allows for exploration at various depths, catering to both entry-level and more experienced divers seeking the beauty of the Bay Islands' underwater world. Expect to encounter a mix of colorful reef fish and larger pelagic species that frequent these nutrient-rich waters throughout the year. The site's clear, warm waters make it an ideal location for extended bottom times and excellent visibility. Divers often find themselves surrounded by intricate coral formations and sponges, creating a picturesque underwater landscape. This blend of shallow and deeper reef environments ensures a dynamic dive profile, highlighting the structural integrity and ecological health of Roatan's marine ecosystem. While specific details about Jack Neal Point itself are limited in direct sources, its location within Roatan's well-documented dive region strongly suggests it shares characteristics with nearby popular sites. The area is renowned for its diverse marine life, consistent visibility, and relatively mild currents, contributing to a relaxed yet engaging dive. You can look forward to discovering a thriving reef community and enjoying the exceptional conditions that define diving in this part of Honduras.

Dive site facts: Jack Neal Point

Depth

5–30 m

Typical dive

12–25 m, 50–60 min

Current

Mild

Visibility

25–30+ m

Water temperature

28–29°C

Entry

Day boat

Level

Beginner to advanced

Dive type

Reef, wall, drift, macro, coral garden

Night dive

Possible

Region / port

Roatan, Bay Islands, Honduras

Coordinates

16.3447° N, 86.4779° W

Conditions & Currents

Jack Neal Point, like much of Roatan, typically experiences mild currents, which generally flow from east to west due to prevailing easterly trade winds. This gentle flow often creates pleasant drift diving opportunities, reducing the need for strenuous swimming. Divers should still be prepared for occasional variations, particularly during tidal changes, though strong, unpredictable currents are rare in this area. Visibility at the site is consistently good, usually ranging from 80 to over 100 feet, providing clear views of the reef. Water temperatures remain warm throughout the year, negating the need for thick wetsuits. Entry is typically a backroll from a day boat, with easy ascents to the surface aided by minimal surge.

Marine life & sighting chances

Green moray eel

common

Hawksbill turtle

occasional

Caribbean reef shark

occasional

Midnight blue parrotfish

common

Cubera snapper

occasional

Spotted cleaner shrimp

common

Scorpionfish

occasional

Flounder

occasional

Flamingo tongue snail

common

Yellowhead jawfish

common

Queen angelfish

occasional

Lobster

common

Crab

common

Octopus

occasional

Dive profile & how the dive runs

Divers typically enter Jack Neal Point via a backroll entry from a day boat, descending onto the shallow reef top, often around 5-8 meters. The dive then progresses along the reef wall, which gradually slopes or drops to depths of 25-30 meters. You'll navigate through vibrant coral formations, observing the diverse macro life and schooling reef fish. The route often involves a gentle drift with the prevailing current, allowing for a relaxed exploration of the wall's contours and any small ledges or overhangs. Your dive guide will lead the group to turn at a designated point, usually based on gas consumption and no-decompression limits, then ascend gradually, allowing for a leisurely traverse of the shallower reef section. The safety stop is conducted at 5 meters, often above the colorful coral garden, providing an excellent opportunity for observing smaller reef creatures before surfacing.

Underwater photography

Jack Neal Point offers excellent opportunities for both wide-angle and macro photography due to its clear water and diverse marine life. For wide-angle shots, consider a 16-35mm or 8-15mm fisheye lens to capture the expansive reef formations and the occasional passing pelagic. Using external strobes is highly recommended to bring out the true colors of the corals and sponges. When focusing on macro subjects like jawfish, flamingo tongue snails, or cleaner shrimp, a 100mm macro lens will be ideal. Practice good buoyancy control to avoid disturbing the delicate reef. During night dives, an external focus light is beneficial for capturing octopuses, crabs, and lobsters that emerge after dark. Remember to approach marine life respectfully, avoiding direct contact and maintaining a safe distance to prevent stress to the animals.

Combine with nearby dive sites

• Marilyn's Mystery

  Marilyn's Mystery is a dive site located on the west side of Roatan, part of the Bay Islands of Honduras.

• Rocktopus Reef

  The Bay Islands of Honduras, including Roatan, Utila, and Cayos Cochinos, are renowned for spectacular diving opportunities along the…

• Black Coral Wall

  Black Coral I and II are prominent dive sites within Cuba's renowned Jardines de la Reina marine reserve, an area celebrated for its…

• El Aguila Wreck

  El Aguila, meaning "The Eagle," is widely regarded as Roatan's premier wreck dive.

• Inside Outside

  The Inside Outside dive site in Roatan, Honduras, earns its name from the abundant cracks and swim-throughs that characterize its unique…

• Michelle Sharpe's Smile

  Michelle Sharpe's Smile is a notable dive site located on the West End Wall of Roatan, Honduras, specifically near coordinates 16.309708…

Getting there & logistics

Access to Jack Neal Point is primarily via day boat charters from various dive operators on Roatan. Most liveaboard itineraries in the Bay Islands, such as the Roatan Aggressor, may also include this or similar sites depending on conditions and guest preferences. International flights typically arrive at Juan Manuel Gálvez International Airport (RTB) in Roatan. Dive trips often range from daily excursions to week-long packages, either staying at a resort or on a liveaboard. No specific permits or fees are mentioned for individual dive sites, as they are usually covered by your dive operator's package. Roatan's dive sites are frequently combined into multi-day itineraries, allowing divers to experience a variety of reefs, walls, and wreck dives around the island.

Safety & environment

For diving at Jack Neal Point, standard dive safety practices apply. Ensure you have valid dive accident insurance, as emergency medical services and recompression chambers are available on Roatan, though evacuation to mainland Honduras or even the US may be necessary for severe cases. The nearest recompression chamber is located in Sandy Bay, Roatan. Always dive with a reputable operator, follow your dive guide's instructions, and adhere to conservative dive profiles. While currents are generally mild, stay aware of your position relative to the boat. Hazards are minimal but include typical reef dangers such as venomous marine life (e.g., scorpionfish) which should not be touched. Maintain excellent buoyancy to protect the delicate coral formations and prevent accidental injury.

Who it suits — and who it doesn't

FAQ

Jack Neal Point FAQ

Liveaboards diving Jack Neal Point

These liveaboards may visit Jack Neal Point on selected itineraries — the exact dive sites depend on departure, weather and conditions.

Roatan Aggressor

Honduras

18 guests31.1 m

$309/day