A decommissioned US Navy ship is to be sunk to create an artificial diving reef under plans announced by the Cayman Islands government.

It is hoped that the sinking of USS Kittiwake will add diversity to the Cayman Islands' diving attractions, as well as helping to preserve marine wildlife in the area. The 60-year old ship has been acquired following an agreement between the government and the Cayman Islands Tourists' Association (CITA), which will also be involved in the project.

Tourism, environment, investment and commerce minister, Charles Clifford, said: "This ship fits Cayman's positioning as a dive destination. Our sea-faring heritage, our strong interest in presenting varied tourism offerings and our belief in preserving the environment, all played a major role in the decision to acquire this latest diving attraction." CITA's Nancy Easterbook, USS Kittiwake project manager, said: "It's not been easy due to strict and diligent requirements, involving sinking an artificial reef in Grand Cayman. In the long run though, it will ensure success for decades to come.

"We'll be preserving and protecting the Kittiwake, as well as the natural marine environment." It is expected that the government will assume ownership of the ship by the end of the year. It will be cleaned before being sunk in June 2009.