Cayman Islands Sinks Ship for Reef

Although it's already known for its incredible diving options, the Cayman Islands has plans for a stunning sunken shipwreck off its coast. Last week, the USS Kittiwake was given a new home under the waves, where it will be an ideal spot for divers in coming years.

The 1945 rescue ship lies near the Grand Cayman Island’s Seven Mile Beach, at a depth of 62 feet. With the deck close to the surface of the water, the Cayman Islands’ newest attraction will be an easier dive for newer scuba lovers, also providing a new home for fish and crustaceans living near Seven Mile Beach.

Jon Glatstein was a sailor on the boat for two years in the '80s, and he watched the flooded vessel sink last week.

"This is the first time I've seen the ship in 25 years, and she's in pretty rough shape. But she's been serving divers all her life and now she's going to continue doing just that. That's got to be a whole lot better than getting melted down for razor blades," Glatstein told the press.

The Cayman Islands is already known for its diving options and access to adventure sports--parasailers were even watching the ship sinking last week--so you don’t need to wait for the newest ocean addition to spot coral formations and exotic fish. Book a trip in 2011 to take advantage of the botanic park, stingray tours, horseback riding, and the unique turtle farm, not to mention cove exploration and boat tours.

And where should you stay? One of the top-rated luxury hotels in the Caymans is the Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman. This 144-acre resort is favored by honeymooners and families alike, thanks to its diverse list of advantages, and it features fine restaurants, a well-planned golf course, it's own magnificent stretch of beach on 7 mile beach and tennis with a pro coach for vacationers.