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USS Oriskany

A one-of-a-kind diving experience, the sunken aircraft carrier USS Oriskany is the largest artificial reef in the world. Built shortly after World War II, the “Mighty O” served primarily in the Pacific, earning two battle stars for service in the Korean War and ten battle stars for service in the Vietnam War. USS Oriskany was sunk in 2006, 22 miles south of Pensacola in more than 200 feet of water. Nicknamed “the Great Carrier Reef,” the site is one of the most popular diving destinations in the United States. With a myriad of pelagic and sedentary marine life, opportunities for underwater video and photography are superb. Water depth to the top of the ship is 80 feet, and the flight deck is at 145 feet. There’s plenty of ship to explore above 100 feet, making this a unique dive for a variety of skill levels.

Date of Sinking Depth Length Beam Location
May 17, 2006 80 ft. to 212 ft. 911 ft. 148 ft. 30° 02.555’ N
087° 00.397’ W
Date of Sinking May 17, 2006
Depth 80 ft. to 212 ft.
Length 888 ft.
Beam 148 ft.
Location 30° 02.555’ N
087° 00.397’ W

Pensacola, FL

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