St. Jacques

Location: The St. Jacques rests in approximately 90 feet of water, situated between the freighter Sha Sha Boekanier to the south and a concrete rubble pile to the north. The rubble pile extends northward toward the freighter Gilbert Sea. Dive Experience: Originally scuttled upright and intact in 2002, the St. Jacques underwent significant modification due to the active 2004 hurricane season. Storm surges pounded the freighter against the mostly bare limestone seabed, causing the bow and stern to separate from the collapsed cargo holds. Both sections now list at abstract angles, creating a surreal and captivating dive experience. Marine Life: The site typically hosts abundant marine life. Divers often encounter sea turtles, sharks, and goliath grouper in and around the wrecks of the Governor’s River Walk Reef. Historical Background:The St. Jacques (IMO number 5190032) was originally launched in 1955 as the Klaus Block at the Neuenfelde shipyard in Germany. It served as a standard European coastal freighter (coaster), measuring 157.8 feet in length, 27.6 feet in width, and weighing 424 tons. Over the years, the vessel changed hands and names multiple times:1963: Sold to Gebriider Fromrnann of Hamburg, renamed Siiderelv. 1969: Purchased by Willy Hagenah, sailed as Tilla Doloris. 978: Sold to Medusa Shipping of Cyprus, renamed Doloris. 1982: Renamed Terence after being sold to Pelham Daleand Partners, Limited of England. 1990: Cruised as Tilla Doris. 1993: Honduran company Island Transport bought the coaster, renaming her Deborah Lean. 1997: Operated as Mirage I and later as St. Jacques for Belizean owners. Notably, the St. Jacques was involved in smuggling attempts, leading to its forfeiture. To prevent its return to the narcotics trafficking industry, it was designated as an artificial reef.