El Aguila, also known as The Eagle, is Roatan’s most popular wreck dive, located just off Baileys Key and Anthony’s Key Resort. This 60-meter (200-foot) concrete freighter was intentionally sunk in 1997 by a consortium of local dive shops, including Anthony’s Key Resort, after being raised and stripped for safe diving following an initial sinking off Utila. Access is typically a short 5-minute boat ride from the shop, often via a mooring line.
The wreck lies with its bow pointing east and stern to the west. Following Hurricane Mitch in 1998, it suffered significant damage and broke into three pieces, tilting at an angle of approximately 45 degrees. Divers can explore its structure, which offers various swim-throughs and visual points of interest. A swim-through entry point on the stern leads along the ship’s length, with another swim-through found within the collapsed middle section. The bow area provides a final swim-through leading to a vertical exit through an old hatch, with a spiraling ascent up the bow mast culminating at around 20 meters (60 feet).
El Aguila has transformed into a thriving artificial reef, teeming with marine life. Divers frequently spot large grouper, barracuda, and tuna, and it's a known spot for encounters with reef sharks and grey sharks. The wreck is encrusted with various corals and sponges, providing a home for smaller reef fish and invertebrates. Seahorses are often found on the nearby reef wall, which can be explored with sufficient time. This site is excellent for both scuba divers and experienced freedivers capable of reaching its maximum depth of 31 meters. Proper wreck diving training is recommended for interior exploration. The best time to visit for optimal diving conditions, including high visibility, is typically during the dry season, from February to September.
