BVI Art Reef: Underwater Art & Marine Habitat

The BVI Art Reef is a unique underwater attraction located off the coast of Virgin Gorda in the British Virgin Islands. The centerpiece is the Kodiak Queen, a former US Navy fuel barge (YO-44) that remarkably survived the attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941. After a long history, including service as a fishing trawler, the ship was intentionally sunk in April 2017 to create an artificial reef and boost marine life.Adding to the allure is a massive 24-meter-long steel kraken sculpture that sits atop the ship. This impressive artwork, created by Secret Samurai Productions, provides a habitat for marine species and serves as a base for coral growth. The BVI Art Reef functions as both an eco-friendly underwater art installation and a coral nursery, aiming to raise awareness about ocean conservation.The site has become a haven for diverse marine life, including corals, sea sponges, sharks, and turtles. Divers and snorkelers can explore the wreck and admire the vibrant ecosystem that has developed around it. The top of the kraken sits just six meters below the surface, making it accessible for snorkelers, while the seabed is at a depth of 17 meters, suitable for novice divers. The BVI Art Reef also serves as a living laboratory, with ongoing monitoring of local flora and fauna using e-DNA technology.