DATE: July 17, 2009 4:36:49 PM EDT

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News Release

Date:
July 17, 2009

Contact:
Cindy Beckert
(305) 318-1864
Former Mayport Coast Guard cutter used for artificial reef off Jacksonville

Editor's note: A photo and video of the former Coast Guard Cutter Spike being scuttled are available. Click on the links below and follow the provided instructions for download.

Video of the Spike sinking is available. To view the video please click here.

 

Spike sinking to make artificial reef

The former Coast Guard Cutter Spike slowly sinks off the coast of Jacksonville to form an artificial reef. U.S. Coast Guard photo/ Petty Officer 3rd Class Cindy Beckert.

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – A former Coast Guard cutter was scuttled approximately 28 miles off the coast of Jacksonville Friday morning to create an artificial reef.

The former Coast Guard Cutter Spike, a 75-foot inland construction tender, was intentionally sunk in approximately 110 feet of water within the permitted artificial reef area known as “Harm’s Ledge.” The former cutter was decommissioned in 1986 after 20 years of service, and Spike was originally stationed in Mayport, Fla.

After its decommissioning, Spike was transferred to Safe Harbor Haven, Inc., which is now known as Safe Harbor Boys Home of Jacksonville. The ship was then donated to the City of Jacksonville to be used as an artificial reef.

The Coast Guard Cutter Hammer is Spike’s sister ship and is still in active service in Mayport.

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