Okino-tori Shima (20°25'N., 136°05'E.) is located about 375 miles SW of Minami-Io Shima. It was formerly known as Parece Vela or Douglas Reef. This coral reef extends about 2.8 miles in an E to W direction, is about 0.8 mile wide, and encloses a reef-encumbered lagoon. A number of small islets and above-water coral heads, 1 to 3m high, lie on the reef. Two small towers stand near the W extremity of the reef. It is a Japanese possession. A below-water reef, with estimated depths from 2 to 3m, has been reported to extend about 3 miles NW from the W part of Okino-tori Shima. Numerous tide rips were observed in the vicinity. Breakers extend 0.5 mile off the E and W ends of Okino-tori Shima. It has been reported that breaking seas have been observed about 1 mile N of the W extremity of Okino-tori Shima, but were not observed in 1997. Okino-tori Shima and thereported reefs should be given a wide berth, as there has been no recent survey. Boat passages have been reported on the SE and NE sides of the reef, but they have not been examined. A large platform, about 20m high and supported by six rows of supporting pillars oriented approximately E and W, stands close E of the small towers. This platform, which appears abandoned, was reported (1997) visible on radar at a distance of 20 miles. Another off-lying danger was reported in 1971. It appeared to be a coral-like shoal breaking in position 20°18'N, 135°28'E, bearing 259°, 36 miles from Okino-tori Shima. In 1988, it was reported that a vessel transiting the area failed to see this danger. Vessels are urged to exercise caution when navigating within the vicinity.

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