Cayman Islands to Create Dive Attraction by Sinking Ship

The Cayman Islands will sink the U.S.S. Kittiwake in June in an effort to create a new dive attraction and artificial reef, while providing much needed relief for some of the most frequently visited dive sites. The U.S.S. Kittiwake, a de-commissioned naval ship, will be sunk on the north end of Grand Cayman's Seven Mile Beach, providing underwater enthusiasts of all skill levels with a new year-round diving destination that is easy to access. Minister of Tourism Charles E. Clifford, said the acquisition of the USS Kittiwake will add diversity to Cayman's diving attractions and promote the preservation of marine life. "Our sea-faring heritage, our strong interest in presenting varied tourism offerings and our belief in preserving the environment all played a major role in the decision to acquire this latest diving attraction," Clifford said. The USS Kittiwake was originally commissioned as a Chanticleer-class submarine rescue ship in the United States Navy during World War II will join the MV Captain Keith Tibbets, a Russian frigate sunk off the coast of Cayman Brac in 1996, as one of the greatest artificial reefs in the Caribbean.

Speaking for the Cayman Islands Tourism Authority, USS Kittiwake Project Manager Nancy Easterbrook noted, "The Kittiwake has been a labor of love and extremely hard work for more than five years and we all look forward to seeing water-based tourism in Grand Cayman stimulated by this new underwater attraction, suitable for both divers and snorkelers." The Cayman Islands has more than 40 dive operations and 250 dive spots spread throughout the island trio and is universally recognized as one of the world's leading dive destinations. For more information, call 877-4-CAYMAN or visit www.divecayman.ky.

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