June |
Dive of the Month | |
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 The YO-257 was intentionally sunk off Waikiki as an artificial reef and attraction for the "Atlantis" submarines. The permanent mooring can be found approximately 10-15 feet below the surface in about 100 feet of water. On days that Atlantis operates, they attach a float to the end of mooring so that it is easier to find. The location is directly out from the Royal Hawaiian Hotel, maybe 1 mile offshore. (North 21º15.650 West 157º50.234). You will see the Atlantis support vessels just to the north or the mooring for the YO-257. Dive boats should monitor VHF channel 68 to coordinate mooring when it is busy. Let's get wet. As the description implies, YO is a yard oiler of WWII vintage. It sits upright in 110 feet of water. Approximate depth to the wheel house is 65'. The main deck is about 80 feet deep. The wreck sits stern to the beach of Waikiki and lies north/south. This is a fun dive. You will see the submarines pass by, sea turtles, eels that live in the old oil lines, many fish and the occasional ray. When the water is very clear you may see another wreck to the east about 60 meters. This wreck is much newer and does not have the growth that the YO has to make it interesting. It is best to have someone topside with the boat while you dive, and after the dive, anchor out off Waikiki and have some lunch, swim, watch the tourists. |
