Diving The 2nd Largest Shipwreck in The World :: The USNS Vandenberg
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- Опубліковано 11 жов 2024
- Welcome to a Florida Keys wreck diving experience like no other! In this video, we take you on a deep dive to visit the USNS General Hoyt S. Vandenberg, the second-largest shipwreck in the world. Located just a few miles off the coast of Key West, Florida, this magnificent wreck affords visiting divers the opportunity to explore towering super structure and dozens of challenging swim throughs.
What's It Like to Dive The Vandenberg?
Imagine yourself descending into the azure depths of the Atlantic Ocean, the surface light gradually fading as you sink deeper down the wreck line. The anticipation builds with every meter as the shadowy silhouette of the Vandenberg comes into view. This enormous structure, once a proud military vessel, now rests silently on the ocean floor, transformed into a thriving artificial reef. The sheer size of the wreck is awe-inspiring, stretching over 520 feet in length and towering 10 stories high. As you approach, you can see the intricate details of the ship’s superstructure, covered in a tapestry of vibrant corals, swarming with marine life.
A Storied Past: From WWII to the Ocean Floor
The USNS General Hoyt S. Vandenberg has a rich and substantial history. Commissioned in 1943 as a troop transport ship during World War II, she played a crucial role in ferrying soldiers across the Atlantic. After the war, she was repurposed for scientific research and missile tracking, a testament to her adaptability and resilience. Her final mission ended in 2009 when she was intentionally sunk to create an artificial reef, now considered one of the best wreck dives in the United States.
How Deep Is The Vandenberg Wreck Dive?
For advanced divers, the Vandenberg offers a challenging and rewarding experience. The wreck lies at a depth of ~ 140 feet, making it suitable for those with technical or advanced diving skills. The currents around the wreck can be strong and unpredictable, adding to the thrill of the dive, but also creating a dynamic environment that requires divers to remain vigilant. Visibility can also vary, sometimes providing crystal-clear views of the entire ship, while at other times, murky water adds an element of mystery and intrigue.
As you navigate through the maze of corridors and rooms, you’ll encounter a diverse array of marine life. Schools of barracuda, snappers, and groupers swim around the wreck, while colorful corals and sponges cling to its surfaces. The ship’s massive radar dishes, once used to track space missions, now serve as habitats for sea fans and other invertebrates. Every corner of the Vandenberg teems with life, offering endless opportunities for exploration and discovery.
Technical Details about Diving the Vandenberg
Diving the Vandenberg requires careful preparation and planning. Due to its depth and potential hazards, it is recommended for advanced and technical divers only. Proper training and equipment are essential, including the use of nitrox or specialized rebreathers to extend bottom time and reduce nitrogen narcosis. Divers should also be prepared for varying current conditions and ensure they have the skills to navigate and penetrate the wreck safely.
Why Should you Dive the Vandenberg?
The USNS General Hoyt S. Vandenberg is more than just a dive site; it’s a journey into history and an exploration of the unknown. Its massive size and complex structure offer a unique and exhilarating diving experience that is hard to match. Whether you’re a history buff, a marine life enthusiast, or simply looking for a new challenge, the Vandenberg has something to offer.
Join us as we delve into the depths of this iconic wreck, uncover its hidden treasures, and experience the thrill of one of the most remarkable dive sites in the world.
Stupendous wreak. I have done thousands of dives and hundreds of wreak dives, including the Bianca C in Grenada West Indies. Another amazing wreak. This one is 20 feet shallower and looks like much less current too. Would love to do it. Thanks for introduction.
That is epic! The Bianca C looks absolutely incredible - I have to make my way to Grenada for that one. No question.
I can remember when the Vandenberg was dock here in Port Canaveral. I will definitely make a dive trip down to key West the see her again.
Awesome! I found some vintage photos of the Vandenberg when it still had all its radar dishes. Check it out: www.shipspotting.com/photos/2111377
Great video Charlie! Thanks for sharing!!!
Thanks for watching! I'm planning a few more trips on the Vandenberg this summer - hopefully the conditions cooperate!
Another awesome video sir! I have to get there, I love the Spiegel and Duane so the Vandenberg next on my list!
Thank you my friend. The Vandenberg should absolutely be your next stop on the wreck diving circuit here in the Florida Keys.
Excellent content as always. Good to see you again. Until next time, Tight Lines and stay safe in all you do. ❤😅❤
Thank you! Safety first. :)
Definitely one of those must do dives. Awesome.
We were lucky to catch it on a day with excellent visibility.
Such an awesome day exploring the Vandy with all of you!
Super star! You'll know that ship inside out and backwards once you finish divemaster training.
Another captivating dive by Bonafide and Mermaid. I would love an invitation to see this in person…
And Thank You for all you do. 😊
The least I can do is share amazing places. More to come. Thanks for staying with the channel.
Awesome day of diving! Come back anytime to explore the wreck.
Hell yeah man! Give my best regards to the Captain's Corner crew. I'll be back at the end of June.
Do you allow sidemount diving or backmount doubles
Certified divers visiting the Vandenberg are allowed to dive whatever configuration they prefer - provided the operator taking you to the wreck is aware of your anticipated dive profile if you're deco diving.
What’s the depth profile ?
At 524 feet long, the Vandenberg is almost two football fields long and stands 10 stories tall. The ship's structure begins at depths of about 50 feet and continues to a depth of 145 feet,