Globe Star Cargo Ship and the Nyali Reef Grounding of 1973
Globe Star shipwreck refers to a cargo vessel that ran aground on Nyali Reef near Mombasa, Kenya on 27 April 1973. The ship was carrying 10,000 tons of wheat destined for Karachi, Pakistan when the grounding occurred. Though salvage efforts were attempted, the vessel broke apart and was eventually abandoned, leaving behind a wreck that remains accessible to divers today.
From Palm Line to Globe Navigation
The ship was originally built as the Burutu Palm for Palm Line, a London-based shipping company that operated routes between West Africa and Liverpool. In 1967, the vessel changed hands to Greek owners. By 1973, when the grounding took place, it had been sold to Globe Navigation of Singapore and was operating under the name Globe Star.
The Grounding on Nyali Reef
The stranding resulted from a navigation error as the ship approached Mombasa harbour. The Globe Star came too close to the harbour entrance before a pilot could be taken aboard. After being advised to return to the anchorage, the vessel turned to starboard instead of port, causing it to run aground on Nyali Reef just off the coast.
An intensive salvage operation followed, but the efforts proved unsuccessful. The cargo ship broke in two and was abandoned. The wreck remained in place for several years until 1978, when Divecon Ltd of Mombasa carried out demolition work on the remains. After this operation, the main engine was left visible and the wreck settled to a depth of less than 10 feet below the surface.
Tragedy During Salvage Operations
The salvage attempt claimed lives. In November 1973, five personnel involved in diving operations died from gas poisoning in hold No. 3 while conducting work on the vessel. The incident underscores the hazards faced by divers working on damaged ships, where toxic gases can accumulate in enclosed spaces below deck.
A Popular Dive Site
Today, the remains of the Globe Star lie in shallow waters well suited to recreational diving. The wreck has become a popular destination for scuba divers exploring the Mombasa coast. The accessible depth and proximity to shore make it an attractive site for both experienced and developing divers.
