Snappers of the wreck unite

Calling all photographers! The Brac Bash is celebrating the 15th anniversary of the sinking of the ex-Russian Frigate renamed the MV Capt. KP Tibbets with an underwater photography competition.

To enter, simply take an underwater photo of the wreck and submit it to sita@candw.ky

“She was sunk in September 1996,” Chevala Burke tells us on behalf of the executive board of the Sister Islands Tourism Association, “and is the only diveable Russian warship in the Western hemisphere. Jacques Cousteau accompanied the ship to her watery depths and she is home to many species of marine life.”

The vessel was renamed after Captain Keith Tibbets and has become a real must-see for the diving fraternity.

“It has been a huge draw. Being the only Russian vessel intentionally sunk as an artificial reef, it has attracted international divers. First time visitors always request the wreck.”

Grand prize

The grand prize winner will receive airfare from their nearest Cayman Airways destination, seven nights accommodation at Brac Reef Beach Resort, six days of two-tank diving with Reef Divers, breakfast, lunch and dinner each day plus airport ground transfers and all taxes and fees. The winner will also receive free admission to the Brac cook-off and will serve as an official judge at that event.

“This is a great prize that has been made possible by our dedicated members in partnership with Cayman Islands Department of Tourism and Cayman Airways. We are certain that it will attract many entries. We have already started receiving and are excited to see all the wonderful underwater shots of the ship,” says Chevala.

Indeed, summer diving at the Brac is considered to be excellent.

“Summer diving is great. Warm 84 degree water. 100+ feet of visibility. The north side of the island has amazingly flat seas. Warmer evenings make for great night dives.”

The weekend celebrations for the sinking take place between 30 September and 2 October, during which the cook-off also takes place.

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