Underwater Odyssey: Scuba & Submarine Tours Unveil Maui’s Carthaginian Shipwreck

Embark on a unique journey to explore Maui’s underwater wonderland and unravel the intriguing story of the Carthaginian II – a journey through time, from a whaling ship replica to an artificial reef.

Maui’s Carthaginian Shipwreck offers a unique opportunity for those looking to delve into its submerged beauty and unravel its intriguing history. Choose from a variety of scuba diving and submarine tours designed to provide an unforgettable journey tailored to your preferences.

The Whaling Replica Ship: A Glimpse into the Past

The Carthaginian II was designed to resemble a 19th-century whaling ship, providing a window into the past of the once-thriving whaling industry in Hawaii. Its transformation from a cargo vessel to a floating museum, and eventually an artificial reef, has made it an integral part of Maui’s seafaring history.

Today, the Carthaginian II stands as a testament to the bygone era of seafaring adventurers and the rich history of the whaling industry in Hawaii. It invites visitors to dive into the past and explore the captivating story behind this remarkable shipwreck.

Discover Hidden Treasures: Scuba Tours

For an up-close and personal encounter with the Carthaginian Shipwreck, guided scuba tours out of Maui are the perfect choice. Expert dive masters will lead you through crystal-clear waters, allowing you to marvel at the vibrant marine life inhabiting this historic vessel. Admire the breathtaking underwater landscape as you navigate the ship’s remains and learn about its fascinating past.

Journey Beneath the Waves: Submarine Tours

If you prefer to stay dry while uncovering the secrets of the Carthaginian II, Maui submarine tours provide a unique and awe-inspiring experience. Journey beneath the surface in a state-of-the-art vessel, offering panoramic views of the shipwreck and its thriving aquatic ecosystem. A knowledgeable guide will share the enthralling tale of the Carthaginian II as you explore the depths, creating an unforgettable adventure.

The Carthaginian’s Transformation: From Cargo Vessel to Floating Museum

The Carthaginian, previously known as Wandia, was constructed in Denmark in 1921. It functioned as a cargo ship in the Baltic Sea at first and then as a commercial fishing boat in Iceland. It was a whaling ship that sailed the oceans during the height of the whaling industry in the 19th century.

In 1964, a Hollywood film-making company purchased the Carthaginian vessel and restored it to resemble a 19th-century whaler, as portrayed in James Michener’s book “Hawaii.” After using it for their film, the non-profit organization, Lahaina Restoration Foundation, transformed the ship into a floating museum in Lahaina Harbor, which was once a bustling whaling port. It was used to exhibit Hawaii’s fascinating whaling history.

Sadly, the Carthaginian was destroyed in 1972 after hitting the Lahaina reef. However, Carthaginian II replaced it in 1973, continuing to honor its predecessor’s legacy.

The Remarkable Journey of the Carthaginian II: From Cement Carrier to Artificial Reef

The Carthaginian II, which was previously called Komet, was bought by the Lahaina Restoration Foundation in 1973 as a replacement for the original Carthaginian ship. It is a steel-hulled brig that was built in Germany in 1920 and was initially used to transport cement in the Baltic Sea. The Lahaina crew sailed the ship to Maui and converted it into a whaling ship with square rigging, making it a museum that floats in Lahaina Harbor.

In 2005, the Carthaginian II’s hull needed expensive repairs, and marine engineers recommended further maintenance. Atlantis Adventures, a company that offers submarine tours, took ownership of the ship and intentionally sunk it to create a thriving artificial reef teeming with diverse marine species. This underwater haven offers a unique diving experience, blending history and nature in a breathtaking underwater setting.

The Carthaginian II is a famous spot for scuba diving and submarine tours nowadays. Dive companies highly recommend the Carthaginian II wreck as one of the top wreck diving sites. However, it is important that divers keep track of their maximum depth, adhere to decompression limits, and use a dive computer while exploring the historical site as this wreck is located at a depth of 100 feet underwater and can be reached by a 10-minute boat trip from the coast of Lahaina in Maui, Hawaii.

Dive into the fascinating history of Maui’s Carthaginian Shipwreck and embark on an unforgettable underwater adventure. Explore the mysteries of this historic vessel as you immerse yourself in the captivating world beneath the waves, where the past meets the present and the legacy of the Carthaginians lives on.