Kodiak Queen (Wreck)

The Kodiak Queen, formerly known as the US Navy fuel barge YO-44, is a remarkable piece of history. Out of the five ships that survived the devastating Pearl Harbor attack, she stands as a testament to resilience. Since her sinking in the British Virgin Islands (BVI) in March 2017, the Kodiak Queen has found a new purpose as an artificial reef, providing a captivating dive site for enthusiasts and a thriving habitat for marine life.

Divers exploring the Kodiak Queen will be greeted by captivating marine species. Schools of Creole Wrasse and Yellowtail Snapper often congregate around the top of the bow, creating a mesmerizing spectacle. For the more observant divers, the sandy bottom below reveals a world of juvenile marine life and tiny crustaceans, waiting to be discovered.

The rich history of the Kodiak Queen dates back to her launch as the U.S. Navy fuel barge YO-44 in 1940. Though faced with the destruction of Pearl Harbor, this resilient ship found new life as a fishing boat. It was thanks to the efforts of historian Mike Cochran that the ship was saved from rusting away in a junkyard in Road Town in 2012. His website dedicated to preserving the Kodiak Queen caught the attention of renowned photographer Owen Buggy, a friend of Sir Richard Branson. Recognizing the ship's potential as an artificial reef, the decision was made to sink the Kodiak Queen just off the shore of Long Bay in Virgin Gorda.

For divers seeking a remarkable underwater experience, the Kodiak Queen offers an optimal environment. With a visibility of 17 meters and a maximum depth of 18 meters, this dive site caters to both beginner and advanced divers. Located in the picturesque British Virgin Islands, specifically Nail Bay Road, Spanish Town, VG1150, the Kodiak Queen provides a convenient and captivating dive opportunity for all.