Dive Site: The Point

Dive site facts: The Point

Depth

10–30+ m

Current

Mild to moderate

Visibility

18–40 m

Water temperature

22–31°C

Entry

Boat / drift

Level

Open Water to Advanced

Dive type

Wall, drift, reef

Night dive

Possible

Region / port

Roatan, Bay Islands, Honduras

Coordinates

16.338528, -86.609028

Conditions & Currents

The Point is characterized by its significant currents, which are a defining feature of the dive experience. These currents are strong enough to carry divers along, making it an ideal site for drift diving. This necessitates a boat-based entry and exit, often requiring a live boat pickup at the end of the dive. Divers should be proficient in managing varying current strengths and be prepared for potential negative entries depending on conditions. The currents contribute to excellent visibility, typically crystal clear, as they constantly flush the water. Due to the prevailing currents, this site is generally recommended for intermediate to advanced divers who are comfortable with drift diving and can handle dynamic underwater conditions, with dive guides crucial for navigation and safety. Gas planning should account for potentially faster air consumption in current.

Marine life & sighting chances

Eagle Ray

Year-round · common

Jack

Year-round · common

Barracuda

Year-round · occasional

Grouper

Year-round · occasional

Sea Turtle

Year-round · occasional

Hammerhead Shark

Year-round · rare

Parrotfish

Year-round · common

Angelfish

Year-round · common

Butterflyfish

Year-round · common

Moray Eel

Year-round · occasional

Spotted Drumfish

Year-round · occasional

Lobster

Year-round · occasional

Crab

Year-round · occasional

Dive profile & how the dive runs

Divers typically begin The Point by descending with the boat, allowing the natural currents to carry them along the reef. The dive follows a general progression from deeper sections, where the reef wall plunges, towards shallower areas. You'll glide alongside vibrant wall formations adorned with towering sponges and delicate sea plumes, keeping an eye out for larger pelagics in the blue. The route often involves navigating through coral mazes and passages along the fringing reef, offering opportunities to spot cryptic smaller creatures. The drift concludes in a shallower, protected area, often a coral garden, where the safety stop can be comfortably conducted before surfacing for a boat pick-up.

Underwater photography

The Point's excellent visibility and diverse topography make it suitable for wide-angle photography, capturing the dramatic wall dives and expansive coral tapestries. Consider a wide-angle lens for sweeping reef shots and schooling fish. For macro subjects found within the crevices and coral formations, such as spotted drumfish or various crabs, a macro lens will be beneficial. Utilize strobes to bring out the true colors of the corals and reef fish, especially at deeper sections. Due to the potential for currents, maintain excellent buoyancy control to avoid disturbing the delicate reef and to keep your shot steady. Be mindful of subject etiquette, especially when encountering rays or turtles, allowing them space and observing them naturally.

Combine with nearby dive sites

• El Aguila

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

• Pirata's Dream

  Piratas is a popular dive site situated off the coast of Mahahual, Mexico, on the Costa Maya.

• Gibson Bight

  Gibson Bight is a highly regarded dive site located in Sandy Bay, Roatan, offering a spectacular alternative to the often-crowded Mary's…

• Butcher's Bank

  Butcher's Bank is a celebrated dive site in Roatan, Honduras, widely regarded as one of the island's most enjoyable locations, particularly…

• Eels Garden

  Eel Garden, situated on the northern side of Dahab, Egypt, is celebrated for its unique population of garden eels.

Getting there & logistics

Roatan is accessible via Juan Manuel Gálvez International Airport (RTB), with many direct flights from North America. Most dive operations, including those visiting The Point, depart from various ports across the island, such as West End or Sandy Bay. Dive trips are typically offered as part of daily boat dives from resorts or as inclusions on liveaboard itineraries, which can range from 3 to 7 nights. As The Point is part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, no specific park fees were mentioned, but diving operations may include local marine park donations in their package pricing. The site is frequently combined with other nearby wall and reef dives to create varied daily itineraries.

Safety & environment

For any dive emergency in Roatan, the nearest recompression chamber is located at the Roatan Hyperbaric Chamber in Coxen Hole. In case of a diving accident, evacuation to the chamber is facilitated by local dive operations. It is strongly recommended that all divers carry comprehensive dive insurance that covers hyperbaric treatment and emergency evacuation. Specific hazards at The Point include potential currents, which require good buoyancy and awareness of the group. Always follow your dive guide's instructions regarding entry, drift direction, and exit procedures. Avoid touching marine life or corals to prevent injury to yourself and damage to the delicate ecosystem. Night dives, while possible, require advanced certification and specialized equipment.

Who it suits, and who it doesn't

FAQ

The Point FAQ

Liveaboards diving The Point

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

Roatan Aggressor

Honduras

18 guests31 m