Okinawa

The Okinawa: A Sunken Treasure The Okinawa, measuring 107 feet in length and 26 feet 6 inches in width, was once a stalwart Army Tug. Laden with a displacement of 350 tons, it carried a powerful 40,000-pound Fairbanks Morse engine. Its massive 8-foot diameter propeller, weighing over 2,000 pounds, churned the waters with authority. Positioned with its bow pointing south, the Okinawa sits upright at a depth of 69 feet. As you ascend to the top of the pilot house, you’ll find it towering 35 feet above the ocean floor. But how did this sturdy vessel end up as an underwater attraction? The Sinking of the Okinawa Shipwreck Park Inc., in a bold endeavor, orchestrated the deliberate sinking of the Okinawa. Now the 18th wreck in Shipwreck Park Pompano Beach, it has become a haven for divers and marine enthusiasts alike. The project received significant support from Finlandia Vodka, which led to the whimsical creation of the “Midnight Sun” dive bar. The Midnight Sun Dive Bar: A Magical Underwater Oasis Renowned artist Dennis McDonald lent his creative touch to the Midnight Sun. As you venture into this submerged oasis, you’ll encounter an enchanting scene. Sea creatures flit about, and a mystical mermaid cradles a “Gazing Globe.” When you peer into this globe, your reflection serves as a poignant reminder: we are all stewards of the ocean. But here’s the real adventure: you can swim through the opening in front of the wheelhouse, navigating into the engine room, and emerge through the dive bar itself. It’s a journey that blurs the boundary between land and sea, inviting you to explore the hidden depths and embrace your role in preserving our marine heritage. So, next time you’re near Pompano Beach, consider paying a visit to the Okinawa—a sunken marvel that beckons both explorers and dreamers. 🌊🚢🌟