Heavenly Honduras

The Bay Islands of Honduras are something of a forgotten paradise for cruising. Jenevora Swann lifts the lid on this sailors’ playground

Sailing up the coast of Central America and discovering the Bay Islands of Honduras (Islas de la Bahia) was a complete joy. The main islands of Guanaja, Roatán and Utila promise white-sand beaches, lush greenery, spectacular marine life, and safe anchorages; however, they each differ in personality, which is immensely refreshing.

This group of eight islands and 53 cays spreads across 70 nautical miles and lies between 10nm and 30nm off the northern coast of Honduras. While sailing close to the mainland is best avoided due to security issues, the Bay Islands remain perfectly safe to travel around.

We visited as part of an Ocean Cruising Club (OCC) rally, and were meant to stay just a couple of weeks. But we were enjoying it too much, so slowed the pace down and spent time getting to know the islands.

In Guanaja, there’s very little tourism, despite the incredible natural beauty, waterfalls, and hiking. Roatán is the polar opposite. A renowned cruise ship port, it caters to the masses, offering a wealth of attractions, nightlife, and diverse diving. Utila, frequented by backpackers and trainee divers, is charming and very laid-back. And then there’s the Bay Islands’ hidden secret – the lesser-known but amazingly beautiful Cayos Cochinos (Hog Islands), which are surrounded by a national marine park where the beauty lies as much below the water as above it.

The Bay Islands are part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef – the second largest barrier reef system in the world – so it’s no surprise they boast incredible diving and snorkelling. The warm Caribbean Sea is a myriad of blues and plays host to an abundance of tropical fish, sea turtles, sharks, and whales, which are found among the vibrant coral reefs. At the right time of year, it’s one of the best places to see giant whale sharks.