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Three Coal Barges

In 1974, while en route to their designated offshore reef site, the Three Coal Barges broke free from their transport. In an emergency operation, U.S. Navy demolition experts boarded the runaway barges and detonated explosive charges, sinking them in their present location before they were driven ashore by rough seas. Today the barges lie end to end amidst a field of bridge rubble, creating a rich undersea habitat for divers to visit and enjoy. Lying in less than 50 feet of water, the Three Coal Barges are a great location for divers to practice their skills.

Date of Sinking Depth Length Beam Location
1974 50 ft. 140 ft. 40 ft. 30° 17.450’ N
087° 13.257’ W
Date of Sinking 1974
Depth 50 ft.
Length 140 ft.
Beam 40 ft.
Location 30° 17.450’ N
087° 13.257’ W

Pensacola, FL

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