Cayman Islands adds to Reef Program and Dive Sites
The former U.S. Navy submarine rescue ship USS Kittiwake will become the latest addition to the Cayman Islands artificial reef program. After 7 years of planning, the Cayman Islands Tourism Association confirms the sinking of the 251 feet (77 meter) long ship will be July 27, 2010. Divers can visit the wreck two days later, after it settles on the seafloor.
The ship will arrive in the Cayman Islands on July 20, and the sinking follow a week of events. Unique artifacts and tickets to be among the first divers or snorkelers to visit the wreck will be auctioned off on July 24 during a gala dinner. For the last time, the Kittiwake can be visited topside on July 26 from 9 am to 2 pm before the planned sinking on July 27 (10 am to 2 pm). Professional divers working at dive stores in the Cayman Islands will have a chance to get a guided tour of the former submarine rescue ship later on July 28.
Since the wreck will be operated as a private park managed by the Cayman Islands Tourism Association, divers are required to pay an entry fee of $10 per dive. The fee for snorkelers will be $5, and all boats visiting the site will need a special license.
Learn more about the Kittiwake at the official website.
(resource - Global-Aventures.us)