Delaware Expands Artificial Reef With New Vessel Sinking
The 180-foot vessel provides a new habitat for marine life and is expected to eventually attract divers to the area.
Updated on Oct. 27, 2026 in Aquariums
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Delaware expanded its artificial reef program on August 12, 2026, by sinking the 180-foot F/V Calcasieu Pass at Delaware Reef Site 13. Located 26 miles offshore from the Indian River Inlet, the vessel is intended to provide a new habitat for marine life.
Why it matters
The project serves as a long-term investment in marine biodiversity and coastal recreation by creating new breeding, hiding, and feeding grounds for fish. State wildlife officials expect the structure to boost local marine populations over time as the reef matures.
The F/V Calcasieu Pass measures 180 feet in length and was acquired for $1 in 2024. The vessel now rests 26 miles offshore from the Indian River Inlet at Delaware Reef Site 13, following a similar project completed by the same contractor in 2020.
The players
Coleen Marine
A marine salvage and construction firm specializing in the preparation and sinking of vessels for artificial reef programs.
Ocean Harvesters
A commercial entity that previously operated the F/V Calcasieu Pass before transferring it for reef development.
The details
Before the sinking, crews performed an extensive environmental cleanup to remove hazardous materials, oil, and loose debris from the vessel. Coleen Marine managed the preparation, towing, and final placement to ensure the structure remains stable on the seafloor. Marine biologists and state environmental agencies will monitor the site over several years to track how effectively the wreck attracts local marine life.
Timeline
2020: Coleen Marine sank the vessel Reedville.
2024: Ocean Harvesters transferred the vessel to Coleen Marine.
August 12, 2026: The F/V Calcasieu Pass was sunk.
The Home Front
Delaware maintains an active artificial reef program as part of its ongoing coastal management and conservation strategy. This latest sinking continues a pattern of repurposing retired commercial vessels to foster marine growth at established state-designated reef sites.
While the reef is primarily for ecological growth and potential recreational diving, local residents and anglers should monitor state updates on site access. Those interested in marine life patterns can review state environmental agency reports as biologists begin tracking the site's progress.
The takeaway
Artificial reefs function as essential long-term habitats for local marine life, though their biological impact takes years to materialize. Check your state's environmental agency website for future site monitoring updates or information on designated areas for recreational diving.
Further reading
For more information on the state's marine environment, see Aquariums.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Times of India.
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