wreck

Log This Dive

USS Kittiwake Shipwreck

The Kittiwake is a total joy of a wreck, truly. Purpose-sunk in 2011, she’s become a fantastic artificial reef, sitting upright in the sand. We love how accessible she is, with multiple entry and exit points cut into the hull, making it a dream for penetration, even for newer wreck divers. You can glide through the engine room, past the galley, and even peer into the recompression chamber. Light streams in everywhere, illuminating schools of Glass-eye Snappers that shimmer like scattered jewels. Our favourite part has to be the bridge. Imagine hovering there, looking out through the windows, as if still commanding the ship. Around the mast and superstructure, the corals are really taking hold now. We've seen some impressive Mustard Hill Coral and Great Star Coral growing, and it’s a constant parade of little reef fish. Look closely for the Peppermint Bass tucked into crevices, or a shy Roughhead Blenny peering from a pipe. For photographers, the sheer amount of natural light makes for incredible wide-angle shots, especially mid-morning when the sun is high. We’d suggest going early if you can; it gets popular, and a clear run through the interior makes all the difference. While the wreck itself is the star, don't forget to check the sandy bottom nearby for a curious Seagrass Eel or a well-camouflaged Conchfish.