Hidden deep beneath the turquoise waters off Roatan lies the Josie J wreck, a dive site that continues to capture the imagination of divers from around the world. The Josie J is more than just a wreck, it’s a story of local legacy, maritime history, and one of the Caribbean’s most compelling technical diving challenges.
The Legacy Behind the Josie J
The Josie J was a 120-foot steel-hulled cargo vessel with twin diesel engines. Originally serving as a supply boat for oil rigs, she was purchased in the early 1980s by Roatan locals Álvarez “Dito” Johnson and his brother Arley Johnson. For over 20 years, the Josie J was a critical lifeline, ferrying goods from La Ceiba on the mainland to the Bay Islands. According to Mr. Dito Johnson, “all of my boys learned how to captain right on her.”
A Tragic Final Voyage
On March 13, 2003, the Josie J set out on what would become her final journey. The ship carried construction materials, food supplies, and a bright blue bus destined for Roatan. Captain Arthur Johnson, brother of Albert Johnson, was at the helm along with six other crew members.
Shortly after leaving La Ceiba, the Josie J struck a submerged object, likely a piece of steel, that punctured the hull. Although the crew noticed the leak immediately, Captain Johnson opted to push forward, hoping to reach Roatan and ground the vessel on a sandy stretch of West Bay.
As the boat began listing heavily, a rescue ship arrived from French Harbour and tied alongside the Josie J. Despite desperate efforts to pump water from the hold, the flooding worsened. With the ship leaning more than 30 degrees, the rescue crew had to retreat for their own safety. Moments later, the Josie J vanished beneath the sea, along with all her cargo.
The Wreck Site: A Technical Diver's Dream
Today, the Josie J lies at the West End Wall, resting on a sand plateau at a depth of 215 feet (65 meters). The shallowest part of the wreck begins at 168 feet (51 meters), with notable features like the captain’s house and engine room door located at 180 feet (55 meters).
Because of its depth, the Josie J is strictly for technical divers. This is not a dive for the untrained. To explore the wreck safely, divers must hold a Tec 50 certification before attempting it, with additional training in deep diving and wreck diving strongly recommended.
What You'll See on the Josie J Dive
Beneath the waves, the Josie J offers an eerie but captivating view into Caribbean maritime life:
- Construction cargo: PVC pipes, metal rebar, gypsum, and crushed sacks of building materials
- Everyday goods: Crisco oil, soft drinks, and groceries still intact in the hold
- The blue bus: Crumpled beneath the ship’s hull, creating a surreal photo opportunity
- Ship infrastructure: The wheelhouse remains mostly intact, its electronics dangling in silence
However, caution is critical. The wheelhouse in particular is unstable. As local instructors, we warn it’s “just a hanging trap” and strongly advise against penetration.
Planning Your Josie J Dive
Certification and Gear
To safely enjoy this site, divers must have advanced training. This includes redundant gas setups, multiple tanks, and decompression planning. Recommended certifications include:
- Wreck Diver Specialty
- Deep Diver Specialty
- Tec 50 or higher
Dive Logistics
Due to its depth and complexity, dives on the Josie J are typically scheduled as first dives of the day, with no additional dives afterward to ensure proper decompression. Conveniently, the wreck is located just about 5 to 10 minutes by boat from our dock at the Brisas Del Mar hotel.
If you’re not yet certified, Island Diving Center offers a full range of technical diving courses to help you build up to the Josie J safely.
Why the Josie J Is More Than Just a Wreck
This isn’t just another dive. The Josie J wreck is a window into Roatan’s history and a testament to the people who depended on her. It’s also a compelling challenge for those divers who seek adventure below recreational limits. With its unique cargo and sobering backstory, diving the Josie J wreck is a must for any serious wreck enthusiast. For an official dive site overview, you can also check out the PADI Josie J shipwreck page.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re looking to test your limits or pay homage to a vessel that once sustained an island community, the Josie J wreck offers both challenge and meaning. It’s one of those rare dives where history, environment, and skill converge in perfect balance.
Ready to explore the Josie J?
Contact us to start your technical diving journey today and prepare for one of Roatan's most unforgettable adventures.
About the author:
PADI Course Director
PADI Tec Trimix Instructor
PADI Course Director
PADI Tec Trimix Instructor
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