|
Sources - The Journal of Underwater Education International publication of the National Association of Underwater Instructors (NAUI) |
Diving The Russian Destroyer
by Richard J Meyer. NAUI #4267
If you have ever considered diving on a wreck of a Russian warship, but thought it was either out of the question or in very cold water, I have good news for you. A 300 foot, ex-Soviet destroyer lies on the sandy bottom off the North Shore of Cayman Brac in the British West Indies. This once mighty naval vessel was purchased two years ago by the government of the Cayman Islands as it lay at anchor in Cuba. The former destroyer's designation was changed from #356 to the MV Capt. Keith Tibbetts.
The ship was prepared and cleaned to be safely entered underwater by beginning divers. After it was sunk, it settled on its hull, right-side up in 90 feet (27m) of water with its radar tower reaching 30 feet (9m) from the surface. The bridge is in about 50 feet (15m), and the top of the bow is at 60 feet (18m).
Swimming along the railing at the top of the hull gives one the feeling of flying over an ocean liner at dockside. In fact, one of the many fun experiences of the dive is circling the wreck in both directions. Another exciting dive can be spent entering and exiting the doors that lead to long halls and staircases. All of these activities are quite safe, as there is always light at the end of the passageways.
There are three marker buoys with lines leading to the stern, midsection, and bow. Using each of these entry points provides a different feel for the diver during the descent.
Probably the most interesting view of the ship is looking up under the bow at 90 feet. The destroyer sits on a sand bar with its entire front section poised over the top.
While most trips to the spot are for the first dive, since one can go to 90 feet (27m), shallow second dives are possible on the radar tower. Instructors who are taking groups of novice divers will find the Russian destroyer an ideal location because of the safe conditions. Yet the beginning diver will experience the thrill of wreck diving without the dangers usually attributed to this activity. A combination of superb visibility and warm water, coupled with a short boat ride to the site, makes this one of the most exciting dives in the Caribbean.
For experienced divers who love to make beach entries, the wreck may be reached from the shore after a snorkel of 200 yards (180 m). In addition, there are numerous other dive sites including the wreck of the Kissime, various walls, and trips to Bloody Bay off Little Cayman Island.
There are many places to stay in Brac, including Peter Hughes/Dive Tiara and Reef Divers/Brac Reef Beach Resort. And, when the diving is over for the day, this tiny island has unique land activities. Caves, cliffs and beaches as well as museums and quaint villages await the traveler. But the real highlight of the Brac is the MV Capt. Keith Tibbetts.
Sources - January/February 1999 copyright 1996 NAUI. All rights reserved.
