This dive site is The Halliburton, an intentional shipwreck sunk in 1998 off the coast of Honduras. Originally a cargo vessel, it was meticulously prepared to become an artificial reef, offering a fascinating underwater structure for divers. The wreck lies at a maximum depth of 29 meters, with its deck at 20 meters and the top of the bridge at 18 meters, making it a prominent landmark underwater. Its 30-meter length from bow to stern provides ample opportunity for exploration around and potentially within its carefully opened compartments.
The Halliburton wreck teems with marine life, acting as a vibrant ecosystem. Divers can observe a variety of small crustaceans, including crabs and shrimps, cleverly camouflaged within the cracks and crevices of the ship's structure. On the exterior, larger schooling fish frequently circle the bridge, creating dynamic underwater scenes. Over time, corals and sponges have begun to colonize the wreck, further enhancing its appeal as a habitat for diverse species.
The best time to visit The Halliburton, like most of Honduras' Bay Islands, is generally during the dry season from February to September, offering excellent visibility and calm conditions. This site is particularly well-suited for freedivers due to the accessible depths of the deck and bridge. For scuba divers, it offers a rewarding wreck experience, with opportunities for both wide-angle photography of the structure and macro photography of its resident creatures. Divers should have good buoyancy control to navigate the wreck responsibly and avoid disturbing the delicate marine growth.
