Pure Grenada, the Spice of the Caribbean has added a new wreck to its diverse and fascinating portfolio of dive sites.
The Tyrrel Bay patrol boat was sunk on Tuesday, 25 September approximately one mile off Grand Anse Beach close to Boss Reef. It was donated to the Government of Grenada by the US Government for use by the Royal Grenada Police Force (RGPF) Coast Guard and entered into service in 1984.
Following its service, the boat became inoperable for several years, after which the Grenada Scuba Diving Association (GSDA) requested permission from the Government of Grenada and the US Government to decommission and sink the vessel as a sustainable reef and new dive site in the destination. This public/private sector project began in 2016 and was completed in September 2018.
Project partners included the Grenada Hotel & Tourism Association (GHTA), Grenada Tourism Authority (GTA), Grenada Scuba Diving Association (GSDA), RGPF Coast Guard, Ministry of Health, Grenada Ports Authority, Clarkes Court Boatyard (CCB) and Sol EC Ltd. Financial support for this project was provided by CCB, the GTA and the GHTA, which was the major financial sponsor through its Tourism Development Fund.
Following the sinking of the Tyrrel Bay, President of the GHTA Jerry Rappaport said, “The GHTA is delighted to be the major financial contributor to this project, which enhances Grenada’s already diverse dive portfolio. This is another example of how our Tourism Development Fund, which is solely funded by visitors to our hotels voluntarily contributing money, has been able to help to develop what we as a destination have to offer.”
President of the GSDA Christine Finney was happy to complete the project saying, “We are excited for the Tyrrel Bay to become a sustainable home for coral and marine life. I am confident that visitors will find this new dive site fascinating.”
GTA Manager for Nautical Development Nikoyan Roberts thanked all stakeholders who provided invaluable technical and financial support to Grenada’s newest dive product and said, “We look forward to our visitors having a memorable experience when exploring the Tyrrel Bay.”
The sinking of the Tyrrel Bay brings the number of wreck dives offered by Pure Grenada to 15.
Grenada Hotel & Tourism Association
