The St. Georges, an old barge that transported wheat to the DR from the US, will be sunk next Saturday near the Club Viva Dominicus. Club Viva Dominicus purchased the ship to create a natural protected habitat for coral reef species that are in danger of extinction. Mauro Scattolin, in charge of excursions for Dominicus, explained that the species have been affected by the docking of cruise ships and other boats at the fragile Catalina Island. The hotel invested RD$600,000 to clean up the barge, removing any materials that may be toxic to the sea fauna. The ship has several small protected cells in which species are expected to reproduce, safe from human and sea predators. Scattolin said that with time, the hotel will organize scuba diving excursions and glass bottom boat trips so that guests can enjoy the beauty of life under the sea.
