A retired 180-foot commercial fishing vessel was deliberately sunk off the Atlantic coast of Delaware in August 2026 to create an artificial reef. The new reef will provide habitats for marine life and create new locations for recreational diving. The vessel, named the F/V Calcasieu Pass, was sunk on August 12 at Delaware Reef Site 13. The site is about 26 miles offshore from the Indian River Inlet. The ship now rests at a depth chosen to attract different fish species and support ocean biodiversity. According to a press statement from seafood industry group Saving Seafood, the vessel was previously operated by commercial fishing company Ocean Harvesters. In 2024, the company transferred the retired ship to marine contractor Coleen Marine for a symbolic payment of $1. The goal was to turn the vessel into an artificial reef. Coleen Marine handled the preparation, towing and sinking process to ensure the vessel was placed safely and met environmental standards. Before the ship was released into the Atlantic Ocean, crews removed hazardous materials, oil and loose debris as part of the required cleanup.
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