As the Corps of Engineers prepared to destroy the vessel, which presented a clear navigational hazard, an underwater picket line of divers successfully intervened to preserve their "dive site." Cartanser Senior was relocated to the west side of Buck Island. A few years later, Hurricane Alan saw to it that the wreck was relocated once again.
Cartanser Senior now rests on its port side in 35 to 50 feet of water, its hull split into three sections. Divers can safely swim through its holds and bulkhead hatches to explore the cargo areas, engine room, and various parts of the vessel's interior.
With the help of daily fish feeding by local divemasters, the wreck attracts a significant fish population. Sergeant majors, parrotfish, angelfish, and yellowtail snappers are only a few of the species that frequent the premises of this wreck. The wreck is well-encrusted with sponges and corals. If you swim to the stern and look beneath the flare where there is little light, you can see orange tubastrea in full bloom, a delight at night and a rare sight during the day.
This dive is ideal for a first wreck dive or for the novice diver. Situated in a well-protected cove, there are no heavy currents or surge on this wreck. Visibility is generally good so divers can view a large portion of the wreck at one time. It is no wonder that Cartanser Senior is one of the most popular dives in St. Thomas.
