Dive Sites in North Carolina (North America)

North Carolina is often regarded as the wreck capital of North America with crystal clear waters offering an array of well conditioned ship wrecks.

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Dive Site Overview for North Carolina

North Carolina is often regarded as the wreck capital of North America. These crystal clear waters offer an array of well conditioned ship wrecks including a German U352 Submarine lying in just over 100 feet of water near Morehead City.

The outer Banks of North Carolina around Nags Head are home to numerous shipwrecks. In the 18th Century local 'bankers' would tie lanterns to their horses and walk up and down the beach at night to fool merchant ships into thinking that they were the lights of boats travelling safely closely to shore. The ships would then come closer and run aground on the shallow banks where the Land Pirates would pilage their cargo.

Top wrecks include The HSS Huron was one of the last American Naval vessels to be built from iron (rather than steel) which ran aground near Nags Head in 1877 and is now easily accessible as a shore dive, there are 2 Falcon jets, several U-boats, freighters and a paddle-steamer.

During July, warm-water tropical fish are abundant in the area as well as turtles, dolphins and several species of shark. Water temps average 80F with visibility ranging from 80-100 ft.