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Secrets Of North Carolina’s Ocracoke Ghost Fleet

Published:

by Anne Koger

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Have you ever heard of the Ocracoke Ghost Fleet in North Carolina? This mysterious collection of shipwrecks lies off the coast of Ocracoke Island, part of the Outer Banks. These ships, some dating back to the 18th century, have fascinating stories. Pirates, hurricanes, and treacherous waters all played a part in their demise. Today, they rest beneath the waves, creating an eerie underwater landscape. Divers and history buffs alike find themselves drawn to this unique site. Whether you're interested in maritime history or just love a good ghost story, the Ocracoke Ghost Fleet offers a glimpse into a world long past.

Secrets of North Carolina's Ocracoke Ghost Fleet

Ocracoke Island, part of North Carolina's Outer Banks, holds a mysterious allure. Known for its pristine beaches and rich history, it also harbors tales of ghost ships. These spectral vessels, often shrouded in fog, captivate imaginations and invite exploration. Let's uncover the secrets of Ocracoke's ghost fleet.

The Legend of Blackbeard's Ship

The infamous pirate Blackbeard, or Edward Teach, roamed these waters in the early 18th century. His ship, Queen Anne's Revenge, met its fate near Ocracoke. Some say its ghostly form still sails the seas.

  1. Queen Anne's Revenge: Blackbeard's flagship, lost in 1718, is rumored to appear on foggy nights. Locals claim to hear eerie cannon fire and see ghostly figures aboard.

The Phantom Schooner

Ocracoke's history is filled with tales of schooners lost at sea. These ships, often caught in storms, never reached their destinations. Their spirits are said to linger, haunting the waters.

  1. The Carroll A. Deering: This five-masted schooner ran aground in 1921. Its crew vanished without a trace. Some believe the ship's ghostly image can be seen drifting near Ocracoke.

The Mysterious Lightship

Lightships once guided sailors through treacherous waters. One such vessel, stationed near Ocracoke, vanished under mysterious circumstances. Its ghostly light is said to still shine.

  1. The Diamond Shoals Lightship: This vessel disappeared in 1918 during a hurricane. Some claim to see its light on stormy nights, guiding lost souls to safety.

The Haunted Lifesaving Station

Ocracoke's lifesaving station played a crucial role in rescuing shipwrecked sailors. However, not all were saved. The spirits of those lost at sea are said to haunt the station.

  1. Ocracoke Lifesaving Station: Established in 1883, this station saw many tragedies. Ghostly apparitions of sailors and lifeguards are reported, especially during storms.

The Ghostly Galleon

Galleons, with their grand sails and treasure-laden holds, evoke images of adventure. Some of these majestic ships met their end near Ocracoke, their spirits lingering in the depths.

  1. The El Salvador: This Spanish galleon sank in 1750 during a hurricane. Divers and fishermen report seeing its ghostly form beneath the waves, shimmering in the moonlight.

The Vanishing Brigantine

Brigantines, known for their speed and agility, often sailed the Atlantic. One such vessel disappeared near Ocracoke, leaving behind a ghostly legacy.

  1. The Patriot: This brigantine vanished in 1813 with Theodosia Burr Alston, daughter of Aaron Burr, aboard. Some claim to see her ghostly figure on the ship, searching for her lost father.

The Spectral Sloop

Sloops, small and nimble, were common in Ocracoke's waters. One such sloop met a tragic end, its spirit said to haunt the island's shores.

  1. The Adventure: This sloop, captained by pirate Stede Bonnet, was captured near Ocracoke in 1718. Locals report seeing its ghostly sails on foggy mornings, a reminder of its pirate past.

The Enigmatic Frigate

Frigates, powerful warships, often patrolled the Atlantic. One such frigate met a mysterious end near Ocracoke, its ghostly presence still felt today.

  1. The USS Monitor: This ironclad warship sank in 1862 during a storm. Divers and historians report strange occurrences near its wreck, including ghostly voices and unexplained lights.

Discover the Ghostly Charm of Ocracoke

Ocracoke's Ghost Fleet offers a unique glimpse into maritime history. These shipwrecks tell stories of adventure, danger, and mystery. Exploring these underwater relics can be both thrilling and educational. The island itself adds to the allure with its rich history and natural beauty. Whether you're a history buff, a diving enthusiast, or just someone looking for a unique experience, Ocracoke has something special to offer. The ghostly remains of these ships serve as a reminder of the past, inviting visitors to imagine the lives of those who once sailed these waters. Plan your visit to Ocracoke and uncover the secrets of the Ghost Fleet. It's an adventure you won't forget.