Dive Site: Missing Link

About Missing Link

Missing Link is a significant dive site located on the north side of Roatan, Honduras, which is part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System. This region is renowned for its dramatic wall dives that plunge into the deep Cayman Trench, offering a rich underwater topography. The dive profile typically involves descending along an impressive wall, featuring a gentle slope around 30 feet before dropping off into deeper waters. This structure is characteristic of the north shore, presenting a reef-like environment rather than the sheer walls often found on the south side. Divers can expect to navigate varied coral formations and observe the transition from shallow reef to deep blue. The marine life here is abundant year-round, with high visibility frequently extending to 100 feet or more. While specific seasonality for Missing Link isn't detailed, the general Roatan area sees a peak in whale shark sightings in March and April. Schools of reef fish are common, and larger pelagics can occasionally be spotted along the wall. Most dives at Missing Link involve a boat entry, often following a typical Roatan routine of two morning dives. The site is a short ride from dive shops, making it a convenient option for exploring the diverse underwater landscapes of the Bay Islands.

Dive site facts: Missing Link

Depth

10–30+ m

Typical dive

18–20 m, 50–60 min

Current

Mild

Visibility

30+ m

Water temperature

25–31°C / 77–88°F

Entry

Boat

Level

Open Water Diver

Dive type

Wall, reef, drift

Region / port

Roatan, Honduras

Coordinates

16.3155° N, 86.5265° W

Conditions & Currents

Dive sites along Roatan's walls, including Missing Link, typically experience mild currents, especially when diving at depths around 60 feet. Divers often drift with the gentle flow along the wall, conserving energy while covering more ground. Entry into the water is generally from a boat, with easy access to the wall. Visibility tends to be excellent year-round, often extending beyond 100 feet, though it can be reduced in the rainy season from November to February due to stirred-up sediments. Water temperatures vary, reaching highs of 88°F (31°C) in July and lows of 79-80°F (27°C) in December and January, potentially requiring a 3mm or 5mm wetsuit for comfort. The calm seas and short boat rides make for generally comfortable diving conditions.

Marine life & sighting chances

Parrotfish

common

Angelfish

common

Butterflyfish

common

Barracuda

occasional

Grouper

occasional

Jacks

occasional

Sea Turtle

occasional

Hawkbill Turtle

occasional

Stingray

occasional

Cleaner Shrimp

common

Green Moray

occasional

Creole Wrasse

common

Whale Shark

March-April · rare

Dive profile & how the dive runs

Your dive at Missing Link begins with a boat entry, typically placing you near the wall. You'll descend to a depth of around 60 feet (18 meters), where you'll begin a drift dive along the reef's face. The topography here features a gentle slope before dropping off into deeper sections. The route often involves navigating parallel to the wall, allowing you to observe the diverse coral structures and marine life. As the dive progresses, you'll slowly ascend, exploring the shallower parts of the wall or moving over the reef crest. The turnaround point is determined by air consumption and no-decompression limits. The safety stop typically occurs at 5 meters (15 feet) in the shallows or along the upper reef, completing a dive that usually lasts 50-60 minutes.

Underwater photography

Missing Link, with its clear waters and extensive wall, is excellent for wide-angle photography, capturing the vast coral formations and schooling fish. Consider using a fisheye or wide-angle lens to encompass the grandeur of the reef and its inhabitants. Visibility often exceeding 100 feet means natural light can be abundant in shallower sections, but strobes are recommended to bring out the vibrant colors of corals and fish at greater depths. For macro subjects like cleaner shrimp or smaller reef dwellers, a dedicated macro lens will be beneficial. Maintain excellent buoyancy control to avoid disturbing the fragile coral environment and to get stable shots along the wall.

Combine with nearby dive sites

• Calvin’s Crack

  Calvin’s Crack is a renowned dive site located near the southern coast of Roatán, one of Honduras's Bay Islands.

• Gold Chain Reef

  Gold Chain Reef is a celebrated dive site located off the coast of Roatan, Honduras, within the vast Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System, the…

• Anka’s Place

  Anka’s Place is a dive site located on Roatan, one of the Bay Islands of Honduras, which forms part of the second largest barrier reef…

• Mary’s Place

  Mary's Place is a legendary dive site situated on the southeast side of Roatán, Honduras, renowned for its dramatic topography.

• John’s Spot

  John’s Spot is a prominent dive site located in Roatan, Honduras, part of the extensive Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System, the…

• Spooky Channel

  Spooky Channel is a unique dive site located on the north side of Roatan, Honduras, just off Sandy Bay Beach near Lawson Rock.

Getting there & logistics

Diving Missing Link typically involves flying into Roatan's international airport (RTB). Most dive operators and resorts are located in areas like West End or Sandy Bay, with some on the north side, a 20-minute bus ride from the south. Dive trips usually run three times a day, with morning departures for two dives, often returning to the dock between dives for tank changes and surface intervals, followed by a third dive in the afternoon. Liveaboard options are less common for local Roatan diving, which is usually shore-based with short boat rides to sites. Ensure your dive package includes transfers from your accommodation. Roatan is part of a marine park, and while specific fees for dive sites like Missing Link are usually managed by dive operators, understanding local regulations is important.

Safety & environment

For divers exploring Missing Link and other Roatan sites, emergency medical facilities are available on the island, including a recompression chamber, though its operational status should always be confirmed. Divers are strongly advised to have comprehensive dive insurance that covers recompression treatment and emergency evacuation. Site-specific hazards are minimal due to mild currents, but always follow your dive guide's instructions. Maintain proper buoyancy to prevent contact with the fragile reef. Be aware of boat traffic when surfacing, especially in high season. Always dive within your training limits and plan your dives, especially considering the potential for deeper sections along the wall.

Who it suits — and who it doesn't

FAQ

Missing Link FAQ

Liveaboards diving Missing Link

These liveaboards may visit Missing Link on selected itineraries — the exact dive sites depend on departure, weather and conditions.

Roatan Aggressor

Honduras

18 guests31.1 m

$309/day