The history of the Shasha Boekanier reflects a unique transformation from a drug trafficking vessel to a vibrant artificial reef, contributing to marine conservation and recreational diving in Florida’s waters.

Article at a Glance

• Location: The Shasha Boekanier wreck is situated off Palm Beach, Florida, making it a popular dive site for both local and visiting divers.
• Wreck History: Originally a cargo ship, the Shasha Boekanier sank in 2001, providing a rich habitat for marine life and a fascinating dive experience.
• Depth: The wreck lies at a depth of approximately 90 feet, making it suitable for advanced divers.
• Marine Life: Divers can expect to see a variety of marine species, including colorful fish, eels, and possibly even larger species like sharks.
• Dive Conditions: The site typically offers good visibility, although conditions can vary based on weather and currents, so divers should check local reports before diving.
• Dive Experience: The wreck is accessible via boat, and guided dives are often available, catering to different skill levels.
• Conservation Efforts: The site is part of ongoing marine conservation efforts, highlighting the importance of preserving underwater ecosystems.

Shasha Boekanier Wreck Location Coordinates and Depth

Depth

The wreck lies at a maximum depth of 90 feet (approximately 27 meters) off the coast of Palm Beach, Florida, specifically within the Governor’s Riverwalk Reef area. 

Location Coordinates

The Shasha Boekanier wreck is located at the following coordinates:

• Latitude: 26° 45.074′ N
• Longitude: 80° 00.594′ W

What to Scuba Divers Say About This Wreck

• Diverse Marine Life: Divers report encountering a rich variety of marine life, including tropical fish, turtles, and sharks. The wreck has become a habitat for numerous species, making each dive an exciting experience for underwater enthusiasts.
• Wreck Condition and Structure: The wreck, originally a 184-foot coastal freighter, has become overgrown with coral and algae, enhancing its visual appeal. The structure has changed over time due to natural forces, which divers find interesting as they explore the site.
• Diving Experience: The Shasha Boekanier is noted for its clear waters and abundant marine encounters, although divers should be aware of strong currents. Experienced divers appreciate the opportunity to navigate between wrecks in the area, using the currents to their advantage.
• Certification Requirements: The site is recommended for advanced recreational divers and those seeking introductory technical diving training. Divers are required to have at least an Advanced Open Water certification due to the depth and conditions of the dive.
• Memorial and Historical Significance: The wreck is part of the Governor’s Riverwalk Reef, which includes several other vessels sunk as part of an artificial reef program. A memorial statue placed by local police and firefighters adds a poignant touch to the site.

What Kind of Marine Life Can Be Found on The Wreck

• Tropical Fish: The wreck attracts various species of tropical fish, including angelfish, surgeonfish, and parrotfish, which thrive in the vibrant ecosystem created by the wreck.
• Sharks: Divers have reported sightings of sharks, including lemon sharks and nurse sharks, which frequent the area around the wreck.
• Turtles: Sea turtles are also commonly seen near the wreck, adding to the biodiversity of the site.
• Coral and Algae Growth: The wreck has become overgrown with coral and algae, providing habitat for smaller marine organisms and enhancing the underwater scenery.
• Other Marine Life: The site is known for its rich marine encounters, including various invertebrates and larger game fish, contributing to a dynamic diving experience.

Key Information

What Makes Shasha Boekanier a Unique Diving Experience

• Historical Significance: Originally a drug smuggling vessel, the Shasha Boekanier was seized and sunk as part of an artificial reef program. This history adds an intriguing narrative to dives, as divers explore a site that played a role in law enforcement efforts against drug trafficking.
• Diverse Marine Ecosystem: The wreck has become an artificial reef, attracting a wide variety of marine life. Divers can encounter tropical fish, sharks, and sea turtles, making each dive a vibrant exploration of underwater biodiversity. The growth of coral and algae on the wreck further enhances the marine habitat, creating a colorful environment for divers to enjoy.
• Challenging Dive Conditions: Located at a depth of approximately 90 feet, the wreck is recommended for advanced divers due to potential strong currents. This challenge appeals to experienced divers looking for an adrenaline-filled adventure. The ability to navigate between multiple wrecks in the area adds to the excitement of the dive.
• Scenic Underwater Landscape: The wreck’s structure, which has been modified by natural forces over the years, provides a visually stimulating dive site. The flattened cargo hold and separated sections of the wreck create unique underwater topography for divers to explore.
• Memorial and Community Connection: A memorial statue placed by local police and firefighters at the wreck site adds a poignant element to the diving experience, connecting divers to the local community and its history.

What is The Full History of This Wreck

Construction and Early Years

• Built in 1962: Originally named the M/S Richard Rahmann, the vessel was constructed at the J.J. Sietas Schifiswerft shipyard in Neuenfelde, Germany. It measured 184.8 feet in length and had a gross tonnage of 678 tons.
• Ownership Changes: Over the years, the ship changed hands multiple times. In 1982, it was sold to F. Wadepuhl Kommanditgesellschaft and renamed Richard I. It was later acquired by a Panamanian company and operated as Richard II, before returning to German ownership as Wega III in 1985. In 1997, it was purchased by a Honduran company and renamed Shasha Boekanier.

Drug Trafficking Incident

• Seizure by Authorities: In April 2001, the U.S. Customs Service discovered approximately 100 pounds of cocaine hidden in the engine room during an anti-narcotics sweep of vessels in the Miami River. The ship was subsequently seized and forfeited.

Sinking and Artificial Reef Creation

• Sinking Date: On February 17, 2002, the Shasha Boekanier was intentionally sunk off the coast of Palm Beach, Florida, becoming the first of four vessels to be scuttled as part of the Governor’s Riverwalk Reef project. This initiative aimed to create artificial reefs to support marine life and enhance diving opportunities.
• Sinking Process: The ship was towed to its designated location, and water was pumped into the hold to facilitate sinking. It settled in about 90 feet of water, facing north, with the top of the wheelhouse approximately 50 feet below the surface.

Impact of Hurricanes and Current Condition

• Hurricane Damage: The wreck has undergone significant changes due to the 2004-2005 hurricane seasons, which flattened parts of the cargo hold and separated the bow from the stern. These modifications have created a dynamic underwater environment that divers find appealing.

Environmental and Recreational Significance

• Artificial Reef Program: The Shasha Boekanier, along with other vessels like the St. Jacques and Gilbert Sea , was part of a broader initiative to remove derelict ships from the Miami River and convert them into artificial reefs. This effort helps alleviate pressure on natural reefs while providing habitats for marine life.
• Diving Destination: The site has become a popular destination for divers, known for its clear waters and abundant marine life, including tropical fish, sharks, and sea turtles. A memorial statue placed by local police and firefighters at the wreck adds a community connection to the site.

What Historical Features Can Still Be Identified on Wreck

Structural Remnants

• Cargo Hold: The wreck’s cargo hold area has been significantly modified due to natural forces, particularly hurricanes, which have flattened this section. Despite this, remnants of the hold can still be observed, providing insight into the ship’s former function as a freighter.
• Bow and Stern: The wreck is characterized by the separation of the bow and stern, which now rests adjacent to the bow of another wreck, the St. Jacques. This separation offers divers a unique opportunity to explore the distinct sections of the vessel.
• Wheelhouse: The top of the wheelhouse is approximately 50 feet below the surface, and divers can still identify its structure, contributing to the wreck’s historical context as a navigational control point for the ship.

Memorial Features

• Memorial Statue: A memorial statue placed by local police and firefighters at the northern tip of the wreck honors the community’s connection to the site and serves as a tribute to the vessel’s history, particularly its seizure during a drug trafficking operation.

Marine Growth

• Coral and Algae: The wreck has become overgrown with coral and algae, which not only enhances the visual appeal of the site but also signifies its transformation into an artificial reef. This growth indicates the vessel’s role in supporting marine life and contributing to the local ecosystem.

Historical Context

• Drug Trafficking History: The Shasha Boekanier was originally seized during an anti-narcotics operation, which adds a layer of historical significance to the wreck. This background is an integral part of its story and is often discussed among divers.

What Safety Measures Are in Place for Divers Visiting Shasha Boekanier

Certification Requirements

• Advanced Certification: Divers are required to have at least an Advanced Open Water certification due to the wreck’s depth, which ranges from 55 to 90 feet. This ensures that divers have the necessary training to handle potential challenges associated with deeper dives and strong currents.

Dive Planning and Execution

• Guided Dives: Many dive operators offer guided dives to the Shasha Boekanier, providing experienced guides who are familiar with the site and its conditions. This helps ensure that divers are safe and can navigate the wreck effectively.
• Safety Stops: Divers are encouraged to perform safety stops during ascents, typically at 15 feet for 3 to 5 minutes. This practice helps reduce the risk of decompression sickness by allowing nitrogen to safely exit the body.

Environmental Awareness

• Current Awareness: The area around the wreck can experience strong currents. Divers are advised to be aware of these conditions and to plan their dives accordingly, potentially using the current to move between wrecks in the vicinity.
• Visibility and Conditions: Divers should check local conditions for visibility and weather before diving. Poor visibility can increase risks, and divers are advised to avoid diving alone and to be cautious of environmental factors like cold temperatures.

Health and Fitness

• Medical Considerations: Divers should be in good health and free of conditions that could impair their ability to dive safely. This includes being free from heart or lung disorders and ensuring they are fit for the physical demands of diving.

Equipment and Training

• Proper Gear: Divers should use appropriate diving equipment and ensure it is well-maintained. Familiarity with gear and emergency procedures is crucial for safe diving experiences.

Dive Shops That Prove Diving Trips to This Shipwreck

• Stuart Scuba
  • Offers charters specifically to the Shasha Boekanier and other wrecks in the area. They provide guided dives suitable for advanced divers and technical diving training.
  • Website: Stuart Scuba
• Pura Vida Divers
  • Known for organizing dives to the Shasha Boekanier as part of their wreck diving offerings. They focus on providing a comprehensive diving experience in Palm Beach County.
  • Website: Pura Vida Divers
• Emerald Charters
  • Provides diving experiences at the Shasha Boekanier and other local wrecks, catering to various skill levels.
  • Website: Emerald Charters