Diving atYO-257 & San Pedro (United States)
Two purposefully sunk artificial reefs, the YO-257 and San Pedro wrecks, lie off Oʻahu's south shore. A brief boat trip from Kewalo Boat Basin leads to these two vessels, situated approximately 21-30 m (70-100 ft) apart. Divers can explore both the 175-foot former Navy oiler YO-257 and the 95-foot decommissioned hospital ship San Pedro in a single dive. Primarily for advanced divers, this dual wreck site provides an engaging underwater landscape.
Evening condition tracking at YO-257 & San Pedro features an air temperature of 25.9°C. We have recorded wave heights measuring 1.34m during this period. These figures outline the environmental parameters currently present.
Dive Site Coordinates
21.2411, -157.8502
Key Dive Site Facts
Dive Site Overview
Diving Oʻahu's YO-257 and San Pedro offers certified divers a distinct opportunity to immerse themselves in both naval history and vibrant reef ecosystems during one exploration. Atlantis Submarines intentionally sank these two vessels for artificial reef projects, presenting differing experiences.
A 175-foot Navy oiler, the YO-257 has been on the seafloor since 1989, after serving in WWII, Korea, and Vietnam. Its structure provides numerous swim-throughs and large open areas, allowing limited penetration for appropriately trained divers to explore its interior. Schools of mackerel scad and trevally often patrol its shadows, and larger creatures like turtles are known to rest on its main deck.
Close by, the 125-foot San Pedro, a former hospital ship, joined the seafloor in 1996. While generally shallower, resting at recreational depth, its deteriorating condition means that penetration and extensive swim-throughs are not advised.
Nonetheless, the vessel acts as a beacon for marine life, frequently hosting eagle rays, amberjacks, and various reef fish around its exterior. Exploring both wrecks provides a comprehensive look at Oʻahu's underwater history and its evolving artificial reefs. Visibility often ranges from 24-30 m (80-100 ft), occasionally dropping to 15 m (50 ft).
Best Time to Dive
Divers seeking the clearest conditions and calmest seas will find May through September optimal for visiting the YO-257 and San Pedro wrecks. During these months, visibility often reaches 24-30 m (80-100 ft), enhancing the overall dive experience. While these sites are accessible year-round, conditions vary. Air temperatures are comfortably warm throughout the year, averaging from 22.3°C (72.1°F) in February to a peak of 26.5°C (79.7°F) in August. Rainfall is generally minimal, particularly from June to October, with monthly averages often below 1 mm. Expect higher wave activity and stronger winds during the winter months, potentially impacting boat travel to the site. Conversely, September and October often report 'Good' dive scores, indicating a favorable balance of weather and ocean conditions. Planning your dive within the May-September window generally provides the most reliable conditions for enjoying the wrecks and marine life with minimal environmental challenges.
Climate Historical Averages
Monthly records compiled from satellite and marine observation nodes over the last 3 years. Data provided by Open-Meteo and MET Norway.
Dive Experience & Conditions
Site conditions can present challenges due to currents, particularly those wrapping around Diamond Head. Strong and unpredictable currents often occur, especially during full moon cycles, demanding careful management of buoyancy and finning technique. Immediately surface swimming to the mooring line upon entry is often recommended before beginning descent. Such a dive demands attentive planning and awareness of changing water movement and its potential to impact the experience. Divers will explore different depth zones. YO-257 rests on the sand at its maximum depth, with its main deck accessible in shallower sections. Close by, San Pedro, a slightly shallower wreck, is found at its deepest point within recreational limits. Visibility often allows clear views, but it's not consistently reported and occasionally drops depending on local runoff.
Dive Difficulty & Safety Guidelines
Approach these Oʻahu wrecks with an advanced diver mindset, as the site is primarily intended for experienced individuals. Strong and unpredictable currents near Diamond Head can make this dive challenging, requiring proficiency in drift diving techniques and excellent buoyancy control. Always immediately surface swim to the mooring line upon entering the water to mitigate potential issues with strong currents. Do not attempt free descent on days with high current. Penetration is possible on the YO-257, which has clear corridors and large open spaces, but only for divers with appropriate training and equipment, as advised by your dive operator. Conversely, penetration on the San Pedro is not advised due to its deteriorating structure. Confident beginners may explore the exteriors under close supervision, but full wreck penetration is beyond this scope. Ensure all gauges and alternate air sources are secured before entering any overhead environment. There are no specific hazards beyond current and wreck integrity reported.
Recommended Equipment
No verified equipment items yet.
Verified equipment recommendations for this dive site are being reviewed and may be added as additional source checks are completed.
Recommended Dive Suit
Recent conditions suggest the water at YO-257 & San Pedro remains near 26°C (78°F), offering typical conditions for the area. Surface air temperatures are resting at 26°C (79°F).
Weather models indicate a small drop in surface temperatures later this week. Cooler days are ahead; you might want a warmer option for later in the week. A neoprene vest or hood can add flexibility if temperatures feel cooler underwater.
Most divers would typically feel comfortable using 3mm wetsuit in these conditions. Consider warmer surface protection (like a boat coat) due to brisk winds. Dive depth and duration can significantly affect perceived warmth. Stronger winds may also make surface intervals feel cooler than usual.
Conditions last reviewed: 18:00 using the latest environmental data.
Dive Logistics & Preparation
Hyperbaric Chamber
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Entry Requirements
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Currency
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Nearest Airports
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Marine Life at YO-257 & San Pedro
Wreck structures of the YO-257 and San Pedro now serve as crucial habitats, attracting a diverse array of marine life. Large turtles are frequent visitors, often observed resting on YO-257's main deck. Schools of mackerel scad, trevally, and amberjacks patrol the wrecks, creating dynamic scenes for divers. Spotted eagle rays might cruise past the ships. White tip reef sharks are commonly seen around both vessels, adding to the excitement. Additionally, the wrecks host smaller creatures like butterfly fish, puffer fish, nudibranchs, and octopus, thriving amidst the artificial reef formations.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How deep are these wrecks?
YO-257 sits at approximately 30 m (100 ft), with San Pedro just shallower. Both are within recreational limits but best suited for advanced divers due to overall site conditions.
What marine life can I expect to see?
Divers frequently encounter turtles, eagle rays, and reef sharks. Schools of mackerel scad, trevally, and amberjacks are also common. Look closer for nudibranchs, butterfly fish, and octopus.
What's the visibility like?
Visibility typically ranges from 24-30 m (80-100 ft), though it can occasionally drop. Clearest conditions are generally observed during the summer months.
Can beginners do this dive?
Primarily for advanced or experienced divers due to potential strong currents and depth. Confident beginners may explore the exteriors under close supervision, but it's not recommended for novice divers.
Is wreck penetration allowed?
Limited penetration is possible on the YO-257, featuring clear corridors and large open spaces, for divers with proper training. However, penetration on the San Pedro is not advised due to its deteriorating condition.
When is the best time to dive these wrecks?
These sites are accessible year-round, but May through September offers optimal visibility and calmer sea conditions. September and October often yield 'Good' dive scores.
What makes this dive special?
A dive here offers the unique opportunity to explore two historical wrecks—a Navy oiler and a hospital ship—in a single dive. Both act as thriving artificial reefs, showcasing a diverse ecosystem alongside historical interest.
Are currents a concern at this site?
Yes, currents can be strong and unpredictable, especially around Diamond Head and during full moon cycles. Divers should be proficient in current management and plan accordingly.
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