The Mexican Navy bought the minesweeper in 1962 to convert it into an Admiral-class gunboat. From this moment its new name will be Felipe Xicotancatl C-53. The wreck, which is known currently as the shipwreck in Chankanaab Cozumel, was patrolling the Gulf of Mexico for 37 years. During that time, it fought against the illegal drugs and weapons smuggling, and it participated in rescue missions as well.
When it was finally decommissioned in 1999, the Felipe Xicotancatl C-53 had still to fulfill one more mission: To join the other Cozumel underwater treasures to the delight of divers. On June 5th, 2000, it began its new task, this time, on the Caribbean Sea seabed.
Chankanaab Park was the place chosen for its sinking due to its easy access to divers and its great sand barrier. There, the ship would not harm the beautiful corals for which Cozumel is famous. Of course, the boat was conditioned for diving and risks such as doors, cables, pipes, etc. were eliminated.