Artificial-reef ships off O'ahu unstable

Advertiser Staff

Sunken ships that make up part of the artificial reefs at Wai'anae and Maunalua Bay are becoming unstable, state officials said. The Department of Land and Natural Resources' Aquatic Resources division is advising divers to stay out of the vessels.

Metal-hulled ships, including the Navy's 165-foot steel-hulled Mahi, were sunk as additions to the reefs and to serve as habitat for corals, marine animals and fish. They have also served as interesting dive attractions.

However, the superstructure of the Mahi has corroded and recently collapsed into the hull, creating potentially dangerous diving conditions, the DLNR warned.