Massive Ray Sculpture Placed Off Scrub Island
A massive 22-foot spotted eagle ray sculpture has been submerged off Scrub Island to serve as a new living artificial reef. Created in partnership with local non-profit Beyond The Reef, the structure will support coral restoration and marine biodiversity while offering a unique underwater attraction for snorkelers and divers.
Marine conservation efforts in the British Virgin Islands have reached another creative milestone with the installation of a massive spotted eagle ray sculpture beneath the waters off Scrub Island. The installation is designed to serve as a living artificial reef, directly supporting habitat restoration and marine biodiversity across the Territory.
Measuring approximately 22 feet from head to tail and 16 feet from wingtip to wingtip, the large-scale structure was deployed through a collaboration between Scrub Island Resort, Spa & Marina and the Virgin Islands-based non-profit organisation Beyond The Reef. Over time, the sculpture will provide a resilient surface for natural coral growth, creating a productive new habitat and shelter for diverse species of local marine life.
Beyond its environmental benefits, the project establishes a novel underwater destination for resort guests, local residents, snorkelers, and diving enthusiasts. By integrating art with environmental science, the installation is expected to draw interest to the area while raising awareness about the vital importance of protecting delicate marine ecosystems in the Virgin Islands.
Beyond The Reef has built an extensive track record of conservation initiatives across the Territory. The organisation's ongoing work includes the creation of innovative artificial reefs, active coral health initiatives, shark and cetacean research, and the retrieval of hazardous abandoned "ghost" fishing gear that poses threats to marine animals in local waters.
Partnerships between marine conservationists and private hospitality stakeholders like Scrub Island Resort highlight an expanding commitment within the Territory to invest in sustainable marine tourism. By combining ecological restoration with visitor engagement, such initiatives continue to strengthen the resilience and appeal of the Virgin Islands' marine environment.
Primary source: VINO