Isery Roatan - The Pirate Ship Landmark of Santos Guardiola
Along the lush, winding roads of Santos Guardiola on Roatan’s less-traveled eastern side stands a striking sight that instantly captures the imagination: a full-sized wooden pirate ship perched on land. This is Isery — an iconic, ship-shaped cultural landmark that brings together the island’s maritime heritage, local hospitality, and a unique visual experience that feels straight out of a storybook.
Far from being just a roadside curiosity, Isery is a multi-use venue that blends Caribbean flair with historical storytelling, offering guests a chance to dine, dance, and unwind in a setting unlike any other in the Bay Islands.
A Tribute to Roatan's Maritime History
Roatan has long been associated with the legends of the sea — from ancient canoe migrations to the era of pirates and privateers. The island’s geographical position made it a historical haven for English buccaneers in the 17th and 18th centuries, and tales of buried treasure and seafaring battles still echo through local lore.
Isery was built to honor this legacy, embodying the adventurous spirit of the island's past while offering a modern cultural venue that locals and tourists alike can enjoy. Its name, “Isery”, comes from the Garífuna language, meaning “new day” or “sunrise” — a poetic nod to cultural rebirth and the fusion of tradition with progress.
What to Expect at Isery: More Than Just a Restaurant
While the structure itself is impressive — with rigging, sails, and a curved wooden deck that mimics a real ship — what’s inside is just as noteworthy. Isery offers a variety of amenities designed for entertainment, relaxation, and community gatherings:
Full-service restaurant offering a mix of local and international cuisine
Multiple bars with island-style cocktails and tropical refreshments
Live music stage where bands and cultural performers bring Roatan’s rhythms to life
Disco area for dancing or enjoying themed nights
Upper decks with exotic panoramic sunset views over the Caribbean and surrounding jungle
The ambience is immersive, combining the mystique of pirate history with the warmth of Honduran hospitality. Whether you’re visiting for a casual lunch, a night out with friends, or a private event, Isery delivers an experience that feels both festive and iconic.
A Must-Stop on the Eastern Roatan Trail
Many visitors to Roatan spend most of their time in the West Bay and West End areas — but those who venture eastward are rewarded with authentic, less crowded island experiences, and Isery is a standout highlight on that route. Located conveniently along the main road in Santos Guardiola, Isery makes for a perfect stop on the way to or from other eastern attractions like Camp Bay Beach, Punta Gorda, and Oak Ridge.
Tour operators often include Isery as part of cultural and panoramic tours, and for good reason: it's one of the most photographed landmarks on the island thanks to its dramatic design and backdrop of turquoise sea and green hills.
Events and Cultural Showcases
Isery has also become a favored venue for community events, private parties, and live cultural performances. On special nights, you might find:
Garífuna drumming and dance groups performing on stage
Local DJs or bands entertaining crowds under colorful lights
Artisan markets featuring island crafts and souvenirs
Culinary events where chefs prepare traditional Honduran and Caribbean dishes
It’s not just a venue — it’s a stage for Roatan's living culture to be seen, heard, and celebrated
Location & How to Visit
Isery is located along the main highway in Santos Guardiola, just a short drive from French Harbour heading east. Most taxis, rental cars, and tour operators are familiar with the site — just ask for “the pirate ship restaurant” and you’ll be on the right course.
Visitors can typically stop by during regular business hours, but evenings often bring more activity with music, dinner service, and events.
Why Isery Matters to Roatan’s Tourism Identity
What makes Isery truly unique is how it embodies so many aspects of Roatan in one place: maritime legend, cultural fusion, visual creativity, community pride, and island hospitality. It’s a reminder that Roatan is more than just beaches — it’s a place with stories, character, and innovation.
For those who want to experience Roatan beyond the usual tourist paths, Isery is a perfect blend of local flavor and creative flair — and a photo op you definitely won’t want to miss.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for something memorable, culturally rich, and undeniably “Roatan,” then Isery should be on your itinerary. Whether you're coming for the food, the views, the history, or just the feeling of standing aboard a pirate ship in the middle of the Caribbean jungle, one thing is certain:
Isery is where adventure meets tradition, and the Caribbean spirit sets sail.