Article by , SCUBA diving instructor, Rainbow Scuba Hawaii
Deep-Sea Diving at the USS YO-257 Wreck
Scuba diving in Waikiki just got a whole lot better with the YO-257 Wreck. This wreck site is one of the best on the island of Oahu and is a must-visit for certified scuba divers.
The History of YO-257
The YO-257 was once a Navy yard oilier built in the 1940s. It was purchased by Atlantis Submarine in Hawaii and sunk as an artificial reef two miles off the Waikiki beach in 1989. The ship rests upright in 90 feet of water, with the main deck at around 65 feet.
What to Expect on the YO-257 Wreck
The YO-257 wreck was intentionally sunk for scuba divers and has many large access holes cut through its structure. Above all, this makes it an ideal location for diving and exploring. Visibility is normally 100+ feet, providing clear views of the rich marine life that has made this shipwreck its home.
Marine Life at YO-257 Wreck
You can expect to see plenty of marine life while diving the YO-257 Wreck. Hawaiian green sea turtles, white tip reef sharks, eagle rays, and many other species call this shipwreck home. The highlight of any dive here is getting your picture taken by the occupants of the Atlantis submarine who are just observing from the safety of the sub.
Currents at YO-257 Wreck
While diving the YO-257 Wreck, it’s important to be aware that there may be a strong current at the surface. However, a decent line is always rigged to mooring buoys on the shipwreck, providing a safe and secure dive experience.
FAQ Scuba diving
How deep is the YO-257 wreck dive?
Answer: he YO-257 wreck dive in Honolulu, Hawaii is generally between 90 to 100 feet deep. The main deck of the shipwreck rests at around 65 feet, while the bottom of the wreck is at about 100 feet.
Related question:
How deep is the San Pedro wreck in Oahu?
The San Pedro wreck is located around 100 feet east of the YO-257 and rests at 80 feet in depth.
SCUBA dive video from 02-18-2023
Featured video from our Video Website (opens in a new tab).
YO-257 Ultimate Shipwreck SCUBA Experience - Vlog 785
Get ready for a dive into history with the YO-257 shipwreck, a popular SCUBA diving destination in Hawaii. Frequently Asked Question: What makes the YO-257 a great shipwreck dive? The YO-257 offers an abundance of underwater excitement for certified divers. The well-preserved 174-foot Navy yard oilier, sunk as an artificial reef in 1989, provides a unique environment for exploring marine life and coral growth. The YO-257 shipwreck is a challenging dive with good visibility, offering a chance to improve diving skills and navigate a large and complex environment. This shipwreck dive is perfect for all levels of divers, from novice to advanced, and offers a one-of-a-kind underwater experience. Don't miss the opportunity to dive the YO-257 and discover the rich history and diverse ecosystem it has to offer.
5 reasons to scuba dive at YO-257 wreck
YO-257 Shipwreck, why you should dive it
- Here are the best 5 reasons why
- The YO-257 was a WWII vessel that was intentionally sunk as an artificial reef, which makes for a unique and exciting dive.
- The wreck rests upright in 90 feet of water with the main deck about 65 feet, providing a good dive for both beginner and advanced divers.
- you can see a variety of marine life, such as Hawaiian green sea turtles, white tip reef sharks, eagle rays, and more.
- Have your picture taken by the occupants of the Atlantis submarine, a unique photo opportunity.
- Diving at YO-257 is a memorable and thrilling experience that divers will not soon forget.
conclusion title
In conclusion, the YO-257 Wreck is an incredible dive site and a must-visit for any certified scuba diver looking to explore Waikiki. With its rich history, fascinating marine life, and clear waters, it’s the perfect location for an unforgettable scuba diving adventure.
For more information about our dive tours, see Honolulu scuba diving.