Mayo artificial reef project delayed due to weather conditions

The sinking of a former smuggling vessel in Killala Bay, which was scheduled for this Sunday, has been postponed due to adverse weather conditions.

The event is now expected to take place in the middle of next week.

The MV Shingle, once involved in a major €14 million tobacco smuggling operation and seized by Customs at Drogheda Port in 2014, is set to become Ireland’s first artificial reef. After a decade in dry dock at New Ross, the vessel will soon be submerged in Killala Bay, where it is hoped to serve as a unique underwater attraction.

Earlier this year, the Killala Bay Ships 2 Reef project team, a group of diving enthusiasts, secured a Maritime Area Consent licence, allowing the tow and sinking of the ship.

Mayo County Council also granted planning permission in July for the ship’s transportation and positioning on the seabed.

The process to transport the vessel from New Ross to Killala Bay will take approximately three days.

A specialised company has been contracted to handle the preparation of the ship for its final submersion.

This project is expected to create a significant boost to local tourism, attracting divers and visitors from across the country to experience Ireland’s first artificial reef.