National Defence rules out artificial reefs for retired navy ships

The federal government has ruled out turning retired Kingston-class naval vessels into artificial reefs, even as decommissioning work proceeds on eight ships.

National Defence says it is still assessing disposal options for the retired coastal defence vessels and has not identified which alternatives remain under consideration. A department spokesperson said any eventual decision will prioritize safety, environmental responsibility and cost.

Thales Canada is overseeing preliminary work at two yards. Three vessels are being stripped and cleaned in Victoria, while five are being handled in Shelburne, N.S. The work includes removing contaminants such as oils, insulation and wiring, and the ships are expected to remain at those yards until 2027.

The department would not say whether the vessels could later be moved elsewhere. It also declined to provide further detail because of sensitivities surrounding equipment on board.

The Kingston-class ships entered service in the 1990s and performed coastal patrol, surveillance, mine-countermeasure, counter-narcotics and training duties. HMCS Moncton, HMCS Yellowknife, HMCS Edmonton and HMCS Nanaimo are expected to continue operating from Halifax before being scrapped over the next two years.

National Defence announced the class's retirement last July, saying the navy would not lose capability. Mine-sweeping work is to shift to fleet diving units and remotely piloted systems, while Arctic and offshore patrol vessels and Orca-class boats take on other duties.