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Time of India
a day ago
- General
- Time of India
Why the UAE deliberately sank 3 ships: Is it bad for the ocean's ecosystem?
Inchcape 1, sunk off Al Aqah in 2001, has transformed into a thriving marine habitat, attracting divers with its diverse marine life/ Image: vipdivingdubai In a unique blend of environmental stewardship and ecotourism, the UAE has deliberately sunk three ships off its east coast, not as an accident, but as a conscious effort to promote marine conservation. The vessels, Inchcape 1, Inchcape 2, and Inchcape 10, have been transformed into thriving artificial reefs that now attract divers from across the world. This innovative approach is a testament to the UAE's commitment to protecting its natural resources while fostering sustainable tourism. The Concept: Artificial Reefs for Marine Life The concept behind sinking these ships is simple yet effective: to create artificial reefs that mimic the role of natural coral reefs in the ocean. Over time, the ships have become vibrant ecosystems, teeming with marine life. These reefs not only support a wide range of fish species but also help to promote biodiversity, offering an underwater experience for divers. The UAE's efforts are especially significant given the rising threats to ocean ecosystems, including pollution and coral bleaching. The ships, once decommissioned, serve as a reminder that responsible management can help restore marine habitats. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like People Born 1940-1975 With No Life Insurance Could Be Eligible For This Reassured Get Quote Undo Inchcape 1: A Diver's Haven in Al Aqah Sunk in 2001, Inchcape 1 lies about 32 meters below the surface, off the coast of Al Aqah, Fujairah. Accessible by boat in just five minutes from Al Aqah, this site is recommended for experienced divers, thanks to its depth and complexity. The wreck has turned into a bustling underwater city, home to large schools of red snapper, cardinal fish, and a wide variety of other marine creatures. Divers exploring the site can witness firsthand how the wreck has evolved into a rich marine habitat. Snorkelling and diving equipment are essential to access the site, and the area is becoming a popular spot for eco-tourists looking to experience the UAE's commitment to sustainable diving. Inchcape 2: A Thriving Reef off Khor Fakkan Inchcape 2, intentionally sunk in 2002, rests at a depth of around 22 meters off the coast of Khor Fakkan. It has quickly become one of the most popular dive sites in the region. As the wreck has developed into a thriving coral reef, it now attracts a variety of marine life, including parrotfish, moray eels, small boxfish, and long-tailed rays. The presence of barracudas also adds to the site's allure, making it a must-visit destination for professional divers seeking to explore a healthy and diverse underwater ecosystem. To visit, divers typically embark on a 25-minute boat ride from Al Aqah. Diving equipment is mandatory, and access is managed through licensed diving centers. These centers not only ensure safety but also educate visitors on how artificial reefs contribute to ocean health. Inchcape 10: A Marine Wonderland in Fujairah Perhaps the most remarkable of the three, Inchcape 10 (formerly known as 'Awaiz') was sunk in 2003. Resting at a depth of about 23 meters off Fujairah, it is one of the largest ships deliberately sunk to create an artificial reef. This site has become a focal point for divers due to its rich biodiversity, including moray eels, barracudas, and other species. Located just an 8-minute boat ride from the Fujairah International Marine Club, the wreck offers an exciting opportunity to explore the wonders of marine life. The site is open year-round, and divers must book through licensed diving centers to gain access. Similar to the other wrecks, the presence of thriving marine life at Inchcape 10 speaks volumes about the success of the UAE's ecotourism initiatives. The Impact: Ecological Balance and Marine Conservation Saleh Al-Dhahouri, a diver from Dibba Al Fujairah, has seen firsthand the positive transformation that these shipwrecks have brought to the area. 'The diving there is wonderful, a beautiful place, and you couldn't get over the amount of fish and coral,' he said, as told to Khaleej Times . He explained that before the ships were sunk, diving opportunities were limited. 'With these ships, diving sites have increased, and they have become part of the weekly diving program,' he added, highlighting how these artificial reefs have revitalized local dive tourism. Emirati diver Mintaha Al Shehhi, who specializes in sharks, has been diving in the region for over three years. She praised the ecological balance at sites like Inchcape 2, where frequent sightings of sharks and turtles indicate a healthy environment. 'Sharks do not choose random locations, and turtles only pass through when they feel secure and find natural abundance,' she said, as told to Khaleej Times , emphasizing that the presence of these larger creatures is a sign of a thriving and balanced marine ecosystem.
Khaleej Times
2 days ago
- Khaleej Times
Why UAE deliberately sank 3 ships; what it means for ocean's ecosystem
The sinking of three vessels in the UAE is not the result of an accident but rather an ecotourism effort aimed at fostering vibrant marine ecosystems. Once decommissioned, these vessels have been transformed into artificial reefs, which now thrive with marine life, offering divers a unique underwater experience. Three of these remarkable underwater havens are Inchcape 1, Inchcape 2, and Inchcape 10, vessels deliberately sunk to create flourishing artificial reefs. The waters off the east coast of the UAE are becoming a vibrant testament to the UAE's commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable tourism. Inchcape 1 Sunk in 2001, the Inchcape 1 rests at a depth of approximately 32 metres off the coast of Al Aqah, Fujairah. This site is recommended for experienced divers and has evolved into a diverse marine habitat. Large numbers of red snapper, cardinal fish, and other marine creatures can be seen. It is accessible by boat trip (approximately 5 minutes) from Al Aqah, and diving and snorkelling equipment are essential. Inchcape 2 The Inchcape 2, decommissioned and intentionally sunk in 2002, rests at a depth of approximately 22 meters. This former vessel has successfully transitioned into a thriving artificial coral reef, attracting a diverse array of marine life. Divers exploring the site can observe parrotfish, small boxfish, moray eels, and various crab species. The reef also provides a home for long-tailed rays and barracudas, making it a recommended destination for professional divers keen on observing the rich marine ecosystem. Located off Khor Fakkan, Inchcape 2 is accessible via a 25-minute boat trip from Al Aqah. Diving enthusiasts can visit the site year-round, with access and activities managed through licensed diving centres. Essential diving equipment is required, and entry fees apply only when booking through these centres. Inchcape 10 Similarly, the Inchcape 10, originally known as 'awaiz' and considered the biggest, was decommissioned and intentionally sunk in 2003. This vessel now lies at a depth of approximately 23 meters, serving as another flourishing artificial coral reef. The site is teeming with marine life, including an abundance of moray eels, barracudas, and other fish species, offering a captivating experience for professional divers eager to explore the open waters and the vibrant marine environment surrounding the vessel. Situated off Fujairah, Inchcape 10 is just an 8-minute boat ride from the Fujairah International Marine Club. Like Inchcape 2, it is accessible year-round, with diving activities and access facilitated by licensed diving centers. Divers must bring their own equipment, and booking through these centres is necessary for entry. Inquiries regarding Inchcape 10 can also be directed to the Fujairah Adventures Center. Adding to the appeal of these unique dive sites, Saleh Al-Dhahouri, from Dibba Al Fujairah, noted that these ships or wrecks had played a major role in revitalising diving in the Eastern Province, increasing the amount of fish, and the appearance of soft coral on the wrecks in beautiful colours that dazzle divers, enhance the beauty of the place and support fish stocks and other dive sites. He said, "The diving there is wonderful, a beautiful place, and you couldn't get over the amount of fish and coral.' 'I have been diving since 1998 before the three ships sank. Diving was limited. With these ships, diving sites have increased, and they have become part of the weekly diving program.' He added Mintaha Al Shehhi, an Emirati diver specialising in sharks from Sharjah, has been living her passion beneath the surface of the sea for over three years. She said, "One of the most significant sites I have dived into and learned a lot from is the "Inshkab 2" wreck in Khorfakkan, where I have made more than 40 dives, and I have never gotten tired of it!' She explained it as not just a dive site but a complete marine environment. The frequent presence of sharks and turtles is clear scientific evidence that the site enjoys excellent ecological balance, as these large creatures only thrive in healthy and safe places. She added, "Given my specialisation in sharks, I appreciate these natural signs. Sharks do not choose random locations, and turtles only pass through when they feel secure and find natural abundance. ' These deliberate sinkings underscore the UAE's innovative approach to ecotourism, transforming retired vessels into vital underwater ecosystems.
