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Ghost Fleets Of North Carolina’s Outer Banks

Published:

by Maegan Payan

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Have you ever heard of the Ghost Fleets of North Carolina's Outer Banks? These mysterious shipwrecks lie beneath the waves, telling tales of storms, pirates, and naval battles. The Outer Banks, a string of barrier islands, has a history rich with maritime adventures and misfortunes. Over 2,000 ships have met their fate here, earning the area the nickname "Graveyard of the Atlantic." From ancient wooden schooners to World War II vessels, each wreck has a story to tell. Imagine snorkeling or diving among these underwater relics, feeling like an explorer uncovering secrets of the past. Ready to dive into history?

Ghost Fleets of North Carolina's Outer Banks

North Carolina's Outer Banks, a stretch of barrier islands, is known for its stunning beaches and rich maritime history. Beneath the waves, an eerie collection of shipwrecks, known as the Ghost Fleets, tells tales of adventure, tragedy, and mystery. These underwater relics attract divers, historians, and curious minds alike.

Why Are There So Many Shipwrecks?

The Outer Banks have earned the nickname "Graveyard of the Atlantic" due to the treacherous waters and shifting sands. Strong currents, unpredictable weather, and hidden shoals have claimed countless vessels over the centuries. Here are some of the most famous wrecks:

  1. USS Monitor

    • History: This ironclad warship from the Civil War sank in 1862 during a storm.
    • Location: 16 miles off Cape Hatteras.
    • Dive Experience: Divers can explore the remains of this historic vessel, now a protected marine sanctuary.

  2. Queen Anne's Revenge

    • History: Blackbeard's flagship, captured and renamed in 1717.
    • Location: Near Beaufort Inlet.
    • Dive Experience: Divers can see cannons, anchors, and other artifacts from the pirate era.

  3. Huron

    • History: A U.S. Navy gunboat that ran aground in 1877.
    • Location: Just off Nags Head.
    • Dive Experience: The wreck lies in shallow water, making it accessible for snorkelers and novice divers.

Famous Shipwrecks and Their Stories

Each shipwreck has a unique story, often filled with drama and intrigue. These tales provide a glimpse into the past and the perils faced by sailors.

  1. Carroll A. Deering

    • History: A five-masted schooner that mysteriously ran aground in 1921.
    • Location: Diamond Shoals.
    • Mystery: The crew vanished without a trace, leading to numerous theories about their fate.

  2. U-352

    • History: A German U-boat sunk by the U.S. Coast Guard in 1942.
    • Location: Off the coast of Morehead City.
    • Dive Experience: This wreck is a popular dive site, offering a haunting glimpse into World War II history.

  3. Laura Barnes

    • History: A schooner that wrecked in 1921.
    • Location: Coquina Beach.
    • Dive Experience: The remains are visible from the shore, making it a favorite spot for beachcombers and snorkelers.

Exploring the Ghost Fleets

Diving into these shipwrecks offers an unforgettable experience, blending history with adventure. Whether you're an experienced diver or a history buff, the Ghost Fleets of the Outer Banks have something to offer.

  1. Proteus

    • History: A passenger liner sunk by a German U-boat in 1942.
    • Location: Off Cape Hatteras.
    • Dive Experience: The wreck lies in deeper water, attracting advanced divers.

  2. Metropolis

    • History: A steamship that wrecked in 1878.
    • Location: Off Currituck Beach.
    • Dive Experience: The wreck is scattered, but parts are still visible to divers.

  3. Mirlo

    • History: A British tanker torpedoed in 1918.
    • Location: Off Rodanthe.
    • Dive Experience: The wreck is a testament to the dangers of World War I.

Preserving the Ghost Fleets

Efforts to preserve these underwater treasures ensure that future generations can learn from and appreciate them. Many of these sites are protected, requiring permits for diving and exploration.

  1. Advance

    • History: A Confederate blockade runner sunk in 1864.
    • Location: Off Fort Fisher.
    • Dive Experience: The wreck is a favorite among Civil War enthusiasts.

  2. Oriental

    • History: A Federal transport ship that sank in 1862.
    • Location: Off Pea Island.
    • Dive Experience: The wreck is accessible to both divers and snorkelers.

  3. E.M. Clark

    • History: An oil tanker sunk by a German U-boat in 1942.
    • Location: Off Cape Hatteras.
    • Dive Experience: The wreck lies in deeper waters, offering a challenging dive.

Exploring the Ghost Fleets of North Carolina's Outer Banks is like stepping back in time. Each wreck tells a story of bravery, tragedy, and the relentless power of the sea.

Hidden Stories Beneath the Waves

North Carolina's Outer Banks hold a treasure trove of maritime history. The ghost fleets scattered along the coast offer a unique glimpse into the past. These shipwrecks aren't just rusting metal; they are stories of bravery, tragedy, and adventure. Exploring these underwater relics can be both thrilling and educational.

Diving into these waters, you can see the remnants of ships that once sailed the Atlantic. Each wreck has its own tale, from pirate battles to World War II skirmishes. The Outer Banks is a must-visit for history buffs and adventure seekers alike.

Whether you're an experienced diver or just curious about maritime history, the ghost fleets offer something special. They remind us of the ocean's power and the human spirit's resilience. So next time you're in North Carolina, take a moment to explore these underwater time capsules. You won't regret it.