The Okinawa Wreck is situated in a sandy area at the southern end of Pompano Reef, on the west side. It’s described as being in “no man’s land” or “the middle of the desert,” as there isn’t much else in the immediate vicinity besides the wreck itself.

Article at a Glance

1. Recent Addition to Artificial Reefs: The Okinawa Wreck, a former U.S. Army tugboat, was intentionally sunk in 2017 off the coast of Pompano Beach, Florida, as part of an initiative to create artificial reefs.
2. Accessible Diving Experience: With depths ranging from 35 to 70 feet, the wreck is suitable for Open Water certified divers, making it an ideal site for both novice and experienced divers.
3. Unique Artistic Features: The wreck features a whimsical dive bar installation called the “Midnight Sun,” designed by local artist Dennis McDonald, which enhances the underwater exploration experience.
4. Diverse Marine Life: The Okinawa Wreck has quickly become a habitat for various marine species, including barracudas, reef fish, and arrow crabs, attracting divers interested in marine biodiversity.
5. Safety Preparedness: The site has been meticulously prepared for safe diving, with designated entry points and mooring lines to ensure divers can explore the wreck safely.
6. Impact of Hurricane Irma: Shortly after its sinking, Hurricane Irma caused the wreck to shift approximately half a mile and list at a 30-degree angle, altering its original position but still allowing for safe access.
7. Local Dive Shops: Several dive shops in Pompano Beach offer trips to the Okinawa Wreck, including South Florida Diving Headquarters and AquaLife Divers Inc., providing divers with guided experiences to explore this unique underwater attraction.

Shipwreck Location Coordinates and Depth

Depth

The wreck sits at varying depths:

• The base of the wreck rests on the seafloor at approximately 69-70 feet deep.
• The top of the pilot house rises to about 35 feet below the surface.
• The overall depth range for diving this wreck is typically cited as 60-90 feet.

Location Coordinates

The Okinawa Wreck is located at the following coordinates:26° 14.011′ N, 80° 04.210′ W

It’s worth noting that the wreck’s orientation has changed since its initial sinking:

• The Okinawa was originally sunk upright, but Hurricane Irma moved it about half a mile from its initial location and caused it to list at about a 30-degree angle.
• Despite this shift, the wreck remains accessible to divers, with the top of the wheelhouse now at around 40 feet depth.

What Do Scuba Divers Say About This Ship

Overall Impressions

• Accessibility and Visibility: Divers have noted that despite the wreck listing at about 30 degrees due to Hurricane Irma’s impact, it remains easily accessible. The visibility during dives can be excellent, with reports of over 60 feet on some occasions, making it a pleasant experience for divers.
• Marine Life: The wreck has quickly become home to a vibrant array of marine life. Divers have observed barracudas, arrow crabs, and various reef fish, contributing to the site’s ecological richness.

Dive Experience

• Dive Structure: The Okinawa is described as a relatively small wreck but offers numerous penetration points. Divers appreciate the opportunity to explore the engine room and other internal areas, which have been carefully prepared for safe access.
• Artistic Features: The wreck features artistic elements, including a whimsical dive bar called the Midnight Sun, created by local artist Dennis McDonald. This unique addition has garnered positive remarks from divers, enhancing the overall experience.

Skill Level and Conditions

• Beginner-Friendly: The dive site is suitable for beginners, requiring at least an Open Water certification. This accessibility has made it a popular choice for novice divers looking to explore wreck diving.
• Environmental Conditions: Divers should be prepared for varying currents, which can run in different directions depending on the tide. This factor can affect the dive plan and overall experience.

What Kind of Marine Life Can Be Found on The Ship

Fish Species

• Barracudas: Large barracudas are frequently spotted around the wreck, often in impressive numbers.
• Reef Fish: A variety of colorful reef fish have made the Okinawa their home, contributing to the vibrant underwater ecosystem.

Invertebrates

• Arrow Crabs: These distinctive crustaceans are commonly seen on and around the wreck structure.

Other Marine Life

• Rays: While not specifically mentioned for the Okinawa, rays are often found at wreck sites in the area.
• Small to Medium-Sized Schools of Fish: It’s common to see schools of smaller fish congregating around the wreck.

Key Information

How Does The Okinawa Wreck Compare to Other Shipwrecks in Florida

Historical Context

Unlike many of Florida’s famous shipwrecks, the Okinawa is a relatively recent addition to the underwater landscape:

• Age: The Okinawa was intentionally sunk in 2017, making it much newer than historical wrecks like those from the Spanish colonial era or World War II.
• Purpose: It was deliberately sunk as an artificial reef, whereas many Florida shipwrecks are the result of accidents, storms, or wartime activities.

Accessibility and Diving Experience

The Okinawa offers some unique features for divers:

• Depth: Sitting at 35-70 feet deep, it’s more accessible than some deeper historical wrecks.
• Artificial Enhancements: The wreck features artistic additions like the “Midnight Sun” dive bar, which is not typical of natural shipwrecks.
• Preparation: As an intentional artificial reef, it was prepared for safe diving, unlike many accidental wrecks.

Marine Life and Ecosystem

While the Okinawa is developing its own ecosystem, it differs from older wrecks:

• Colonization Stage: Being relatively new, it’s in earlier stages of marine colonization compared to centuries-old wrecks.
• Location: It was placed in a previously barren sandy area, unlike many natural wrecks that may be part of existing reef systems.

Historical and Archaeological Value

The Okinawa’s value lies more in its role as an artificial reef and dive attraction:

• Artifacts: Unlike historical wrecks, it doesn’t contain valuable artifacts or provide insights into past maritime activities.
• Research: Its primary research value is in studying artificial reef development rather than historical archaeology.

What is The Full History of This Ship

Origins and Service

• The vessel was originally named LT 1970 and was built in 1953.
• It served as a U.S. Army tugboat for several decades, primarily towing destroyers along the east coast.

Specifications

• Length: 107 feet
• Width: 26.5 feet
• Displacement: 350 tons when loaded
• Engine: 40,000 lb Fairbanks Morse engine
• Propeller: 8 feet in diameter, weighing over 2,000 lbs

Decommissioning and Acquisition

• The Okinawa was decommissioned and sold in 2003.
• It was later purchased with the intention of creating an artificial reef.

Preparation and Sinking

• The vessel was carefully prepared for its new role as an artificial reef, including modifications for safe diver penetration.
• Local artist Dennis McDonald created artistic additions, including a whimsical dive bar called the “Midnight Sun”.
• Finlandia Vodka was the project’s largest sponsor, influencing some of the artistic elements.
• The Okinawa was sunk on August 9, 2017, by Shipwreck Park Inc.
• It became the 18th wreck in Shipwreck Park Pompano Beach.

Post-Sinking Events

• Initially, the Okinawa was sunk fully upright, thanks to careful planning and good sea conditions.
• Shortly after its sinking, Hurricane Irma struck the area, moving the wreck about half a mile from its original location and causing it to list at approximately 30 degrees.
• Despite this shift, the wreck remained accessible to divers, with its new position still allowing for safe exploration.

What Historical Features Can Still Be Identified on The Okinawa Wreck

Original Structure

• Engine Room: Divers can explore and view the engine room, which likely still contains remnants of the original 40,000 lb Fairbanks Morse engine.
• Propeller: The 8-foot diameter propeller, weighing over 2,000 lbs, is still visible and is an impressive feature of the wreck.
• Wheelhouse: The top of the pilot house rises to about 35 feet below the surface, allowing divers to easily identify this key structural element.

Military Origins

• Overall Design: The vessel’s design as a 107-foot U.S. Army tugboat is still evident in its basic structure.
• Bow: The bow of the ship points south, helping divers orient themselves and visualize the vessel’s original form.

Post-Sinking Modifications

• Dive Bar: The “Midnight Sun” dive bar, created by artist Dennis McDonald, is a unique feature that can be explored. This includes artistic elements like sea creatures and a mermaid statue holding a “Gazing Globe”.
• Penetration Points: The wreck was prepared for safe diver exploration, so there are intentionally created openings, such as the one in front of the wheelhouse that allows divers to enter the engine room.

What Safety Measures Are in Place for Divers Visiting the Okinawa Wreck

1. Preparation for safe diving: The wreck was intentionally prepared for safe diver exploration before sinking. This includes creating designated penetration points and ensuring the structure is safe for divers to enter.
2. Accessible depth: The wreck sits at depths between 35-70 feet, making it accessible for Open Water certified divers. The top of the pilot house is at about 35 feet, while the base is at 69-70 feet.
3. Clear entry/exit points: There are specific openings created for divers, such as an entry point in front of the wheelhouse that allows access to the engine room.
4. Mooring lines: The wreck has mooring lines attached to different portions, allowing dive boats to securely anchor and providing reference points for divers.
5. Skill level recommendations: While accessible to Open Water divers, it’s recommended that divers have additional certifications like Wreck Diver and Deep Diver for a safer experience.
6. Guided dives: Many dive operators offer guided tours of the wreck, ensuring divers have professional supervision and assistance.
7. Multiple dive plan: Due to the wreck’s size and depth, dive operators typically plan two dives to allow for a comprehensive but safe exploration of the site.
8. Surface interval facilities: There are nearby facilities for divers to rest and refuel between dives, supporting safe diving practices.
9. Dive briefings: Dive operators likely provide thorough briefings on the wreck’s layout, potential hazards, and dive plan before entering the water.
10. Emergency preparedness: While not explicitly stated, reputable dive operators would have emergency protocols and equipment in place for diver safety.

Dive Shops That Provide Diving Trips to This Shipwreck

1. South Florida Diving Headquarters
   • Address: 101 N Riverside Dr # 111, Pompano Beach, FL 33062
   • Phone: (954) 783-2299
   • Website: southfloridadiving.com
   • Rating: 4.6 (368 reviews)
2. AquaLife Divers Inc.
   • Address: 2705 N Riverside Dr, Pompano Beach, FL 33062
   • Phone: (954) 231-3483
   • Website: aqualifedivers.com
   • Rating: 4.8 (141 reviews)
3. DH Scuba
   • Address: 840 SE 22nd Ave, Pompano Beach, FL 33062
   • Phone: (954) 294-5600
   • Website: dhscuba.com
   • Rating: 4.9 (43 reviews)