CORONADO (CBS 8) - Four cargo ships have been stuck off Coronado for days as they await to come into the National City Marine Terminal.
They are loaded with thousands of foreign cars and are catching the eyes of curious San Diegans.
Even though the ships have been anchored along the shore since the beginning of the week, docking problems could continue to keep them out at sea.
"This is unusual because you do not usually see three or four, you see military ships, but not big cargo ships," said Dixie McCarthy, a Coronado resident.
Coronado resident and Hotel Del Coronado employee Kerry Parr said the cargo ships are carrying imported cars by Pasha Automotive.
CBS News 8 reached out to Pasha, but they did not return calls.
A spokesperson for the Port of San Diego said there is not enough space at the car pier at the National City Marine Terminal.
In a statement she said:
"Recent vessel berthing delays have been caused by higher than usual arrivals and back-to-back vessels - commonly referred to as vessel bunching. Pasha Automotive Services is working with its customers to process and ship as many units as possible to create receiving space. Additionally, in close cooperation with the Port of San Diego and the City of National City, optimization solutions are being developed that will allow natural industrial growth, expanded commercial access and outdoor space for National City residents."
There is no time line when the ships will be able to dock.
The National City Council on Tuesday will discuss a plan to expand the pier for Pasha and add more public access.
