This dive site is the USS Kittiwake, a purpose-sunk artificial reef located just offshore from Seven Mile Beach in the Cayman Islands. A former U.S. Navy submarine rescue vessel, the Kittiwake was scuttled in 2011 to create a vibrant underwater ecosystem. The wreck sits upright, allowing for relatively easy navigation through its five decks, including the engine room, bridge, and various crew quarters, making it a fascinating and accessible wreck dive.
The Kittiwake has quickly become a thriving habitat for a diverse array of marine life. Divers can frequently encounter nurse sharks and reef sharks, as well as green sea turtles and the occasional eagle ray patrolling the structure. Schools of vibrant fish such as snapper, angelfish, grunts, and grouper are abundant, along with various anemones and smaller reef dwellers that have colonized the wreck.
The best time to visit the Kittiwake is generally year-round, benefiting from the consistently clear waters and calm conditions typical of the Cayman Islands. Its shallow maximum depth makes it suitable for multiple dives, and its popularity among freedivers and snorkelers highlights its excellent accessibility and visual appeal for all water enthusiasts.
