The Wreck of the Odyssey

Roatan’s biggest planned wreck is a 300-foot freighter called Odyssey. Owned by Hybur Limited, the Odyssey was being rebuilt when a catastrophic fire put an end to its freight-hauling career. Close ties between the Galindos, owners of Anthony’s Key Resort, and the Hydes, owners of Hybur Limited, made it an obvious decision to donate Odyssey for wreck diving. AKR spearheaded the effort to secure government approval, clean, prepare and sink the shipwreck odyssey small while several dive operators around the island contributed to the cleanup effort. Clean up was extensive, with approximately 50 truckloads of debris – including charred furniture, insulation and electrical wiring – removed over several weeks. Once clean, Odyssey was made safe for scuba divers. For example, hatch covers weighing several tons were welded on to strengthen the ship’s frame. On November 15, 2002, the ship was towed from French Harbour to Mud Hole, positioned over its future home, and sunk. Local video producer Tim Blanton spent that day shooting video. 70-80 spectators watched from sea and shore as lines were anchored to ensure the ship remained upright while sinking.

The sea-cocks were opened, and water began to fill the ship. After several hours, and one dramatic moment when it listed to starboard, the Odyssey righted itself and disappeared beneath the surface. Blanton and Galindo were among a group of divers privileged to visit the Odyssey the following morning. Upon seeing the upright attitude and location of Odyssey centered between two coral heads, Galindo commented it was a “bull’s-eye”. The new home of Odyssey is off Mud Hole, resting on sand in 110 feet of water. The ship is massive, 300 feet from bow to stern, 50 feet wide and 85 feet tall. The size is also the most impressive thing about diving the Odyssey. Exploring the cargo area, along passageways the length of a football field, divers look tiny. Just two months after the sinking, several ‘Northers’ ripped through the north shore over approximately one week. Two of the massive hatch covers were ripped off by the power of the surge slamming into the hull.