The Chikuzen 's remoteness and exposure to rough sea conditions will help preserve its wild temperament for years to come. Throughout the Caribbean, Tourist Boards and Dive Operators are no longer content to wait for marine disasters to create dive sites. They are now taking matters into their own hands and intentionally sinking ships and airplanes to attract divers. Off the southwest coast of Cooper Island, the wreck of the 75 foot Marie L has recently been joined by the Pat , a 70 foot tugboat. It didn't take long for them to attract marine life.
Smaller fish enjoy the protection of the structures and larger fish enjoy the smaller fish.
Another popular wreck is that of the Fearless . Silhouettes of divers swimming along the tall mast shot against the sun are very effective. Like the Marie L , the Fearless now has company too. The Willie T , formerly a popular bar and restaurant anchored in the Norman Island Bight, was placed on the sea floor near the Fearless just about a year ago. While many veteran cold-water divers are attracted by the challenges and rewards of salvaging artifacts from dangerous deep wrecks, this is not the case in the B.V.I. where many wrecks are protected and penalties can be incurred for removing objects.