Roatán - Honduras

Roatán is an island located off the north coast of Honduras and home to pristine beaches, jungle-covered hills and a unique reef system. The most populous town of the island is Coxen Hole, capital of Roatán municipality, located in the southwest. Other important towns include French Harbour, West End, and Oak Ridge, the capital of Jose Santos Guardiola municipality.

When visiting Roatán the Ryndam docked at the Mahogany Bay Cruise Centre, a $62 million complex, created by Carnival Corporation and Roatán businessman Jerry Hynds. The centre encompasses 20 acres of waterfront property and includes a two-berth cruise terminal.


Above: The sign welcoming you to the Cruise Centre


Above: Mahogany Bay Cruise Centre from the top of the complex


Above: Mahogany Bay Cruise Centre in HDR!


Above: The Ryndam behind the central fountain at the complex


Above: The Ryndam parked at Mahogany Bay

There is a chairlift at the complex entitled Magical Flying Beach Chairs which takes passengers to Mahogany Beach - another part of the cruise centre.


Above: The view back at the complex from the chairlift.


Above: Mahogany Bay Beach

But once again, to discover the authentic Roatán, one must venture beyond the confines of this artificial complex. I did this on several occasions, including on a tour to the other side of the island.


Above: The lush hills of Roatán


Above: We were treated to an authentic dance at a resort on the tour


Above: The beach at the resort on our tour

I'll leave you with a video of the 'Magical Flying Beach Chairs' at Mahogany Bay. Coming up next: Costa Maya!