Following five years of rigorous research, planning and preparation by the Cayman Islands Government, the Cayman Islands Tourism Association and the US Maritime Administration, our newest dive attraction and artificial reef is about to become a reality. In the summer of 2009, the U.S.S. Kittiwake a 251 foot, 5 deck, 2200 ton vessel decommissioned in 1994 after over 50 years of proud service providing diver/submarine support will be sunk in the warm waters off Grand Cayman, creating a new home for marine life and promoting biodiversity. The ship will be located in the calm, crystal clear turquoise seas off the northern end of Seven Mile Beach, west side of the island, and will provide underwater enthusiasts of all skill levels with a new year-round diving destination that is both easy to access and a thrill to explore. Situated at a depth of 65 feet below the surface, it will allow lots of bottom time for divers, while the top of the bridge, just 15 feet beneath the surface, will be an exciting attraction for snorkellers.
Committed to preserving our environment. The sinking of the U.S.S. Kittiwake will create a magnet for underwater life and a world-class destination for divers, while protecting our marine environment.
Environmental benefits:
- The Kittiwake project will cause an old, decommissioned contaminated ship to be cleaned to EPA/MARAD/CIDOE environmental standards, resulting in the safe disposal of all toxins
- Provides new habitats for marine life and promotes biodiversity
- Reduces the environmental and social impacts associated with visitor traffic
to Stingray City/Sandbar site and surrounding fringe reefs
Be one of the first to dive the U.S.S. Kittiwake. With its close proximity to Georgetown Harbour and over 40 experienced, professional dive and snorkel operators offering group trips and individual travel, as well as Novice, Advanced and Wreck Specialty courses, exploring the U.S.S. Kittiwake will be an adventure unlike any other you've experienced.
