Mandalay

Mandalay is a captivating dive site located within Biscayne National Park, Miami. The site features the wreck of the Mandalay, a 112-foot steel-hulled auxiliary schooner built in 1928 by George Lawley & Son Corporation in Massachusetts. Originally named Hardi Biou, the vessel was designed by John G. Alden Naval Architects and was later renamed Valor before being purchased and refitted by Michael Burke of Windjammer Cruises in 1965. Renamed Mandalay, the schooner was transformed into a luxury cruise ship, complete with mahogany, brass, and ivory fittings, and a teak deck. On New Year’s Day in 1966, the Mandalay ran aground on Long Reef while returning from a 10-day cruise in the Bahamas. The ship was off course due to a navigational error, and despite efforts to salvage it, the vessel was declared a total loss. The wreck now lies in shallow waters, ranging from 8 to 25 feet deep, making it an ideal site for both snorkelers and scuba divers. The clear waters and excellent visibility allow divers to explore the remains of the ship, which have become encrusted with coral and serve as a habitat for various marine species. The Mandalay is part of the Maritime Heritage Trail, which highlights several historic shipwrecks within Biscayne National Park. The site is equipped with mooring buoys to prevent anchor damage, helping to preserve the wreck for future generations. Divers visiting the Mandalay can expect to see a vibrant underwater ecosystem, with colorful coral formations and a variety of fish species, making it a popular destination for underwater photography.