Off the coast of Waikiki, several notable maritime wrecks have become popular dive sites and contribute to Hawaii’s unique underwater history. Here are a few key wrecks, their history, depths, and museums where you can find more information about them.
1. YO-257
• Date Sunk: 1989
• Depth: 85–100 feet
• History: Originally a U.S. Navy yard oiler (YO-257) built during World War II, this ship served for many years before being decommissioned. In 1989, it was intentionally sunk to create an artificial reef and dive site. The YO-257 now sits upright on the seafloor, attracting diverse marine life, including Hawaiian green sea turtles and reef sharks.
• Where to Learn More: The Bishop Museum in Honolulu provides exhibits and collections related to Hawaii’s military and maritime history, including information about World War II-era vessels. Additionally, the Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum offers insight into Hawaii’s naval history.
2. San Pedro
• Date Sunk: 1996
• Depth: 80–100 feet
• History: The San Pedro was a Korean fishing vessel intentionally sunk near the YO-257 in 1996 to enhance the artificial reef in the area. This wreck sits close to the YO-257, making it possible for divers to explore both wrecks in a single dive. The San Pedro is home to various fish species and corals, creating a vibrant underwater environment.
• Where to Learn More: While specific information on the San Pedro may not be available in Honolulu museums, the Bishop Museum’s natural history collections provide insight into Hawaii’s marine ecosystems and artificial reefs.
3. Nashua
• Date Sunk: 2012
• Depth: 65–85 feet
• History: The Nashua, originally a Navy tugboat, was decommissioned and later used as a target vessel for the U.S. military before being intentionally sunk near Waikiki. The wreck has become a fascinating dive site, with coral growth and schools of fish frequently spotted around it.
• Where to Learn More: Information on military vessels like the Nashua can often be found at the Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum. This museum covers aspects of the Navy’s role in the Pacific and includes displays related to ships and military equipment used in the region.
4. Sea Tiger
• Date Sunk: 1999
• Depth: 90–120 feet
• History: The Sea Tiger is one of the most famous wrecks off Waikiki. Originally a Chinese smuggling vessel, it was confiscated by the U.S. Coast Guard and later purchased by a local dive company. In 1999, the Sea Tiger was sunk to create an artificial reef and dive attraction. At 168 feet in length, this is one of the largest accessible wrecks off Waikiki and offers an extensive structure for marine life.
• Where to Learn More: The Waikiki Aquarium has exhibits on Hawaii’s marine life, which can provide a context for the species that thrive around the Sea Tiger. Although specific details about the wreck itself aren’t typically featured, the aquarium’s focus on conservation and marine ecosystems adds value for those interested in understanding the underwater environment.
Best Museums for Maritime and Naval History in Honolulu
1. Bishop Museum: As Hawaii’s premier museum, the Bishop Museum offers a comprehensive look at Hawaii’s history, including its maritime traditions, natural history, and the impact of the U.S. Navy in the Pacific. Their exhibits provide a broad historical context that complements the stories of Waikiki’s wrecks.
2. Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum: Located at Pearl Harbor, this museum delves into Hawaii’s military and naval history with a focus on submarine warfare and naval operations in the Pacific. It offers in-depth information about military vessels, including decommissioned ships and their roles.
3. Waikiki Aquarium: While not a historical museum, the Waikiki Aquarium showcases marine life commonly found around wrecks off Waikiki. Their exhibits highlight the types of coral, fish, and marine species that you might encounter on dives to these wrecks.
These wrecks off Waikiki showcase the diverse history and repurposing of vessels, from naval oilers to confiscated smuggling ships, and now support thriving artificial reefs that contribute to Hawaii’s unique marine ecosystem. For those interested in Hawaii’s maritime past, these museums provide valuable resources and context for understanding the evolution of Waikiki’s waters.