White Bank - Inner Islands

The AR-140 barge 1 wreck off North Carolina isn’t one of those big, dramatic shipwrecks, but we find it consistently delivers. It’s a real working wreck, about 130 feet of twisted steel that feels like a permanent resident on the seabed. We often find it sitting in a nice current, which means good visibility days are common, and the fish love it. What we really enjoy here is the way the barge has become a sprawling apartment complex for marine life. You’ll see sheepshead darting through the broken sections, massive schools of baitfish shimmering above the deck, and often a fat loggerhead turtle cruising past. Our favorite part is poking around the more collapsed sections – there’s always a lobster tucked away or a grumpy oyster toadfish peering out. It’s a straightforward dive, perfect for divers who appreciate the subtle beauty of a wreck that’s fully integrated into its environment, rather than just a landmark.

Location
Inner Islands, Seychelles, Indian Ocean & East Africa
Coordinates
-4.329900, 55.813400
Type
wreck

Wreck History - White Bank

Vessel Type
barge
Cause
scuttled

This 130-foot barge is not a victim of storm or war, but a key feature of North Carolina's highly successful artificial reef program. It was intentionally sunk to create a marine habitat at site AR-140, also known as the New River Reef. This program transforms retired vessels and other materials into thriving underwater ecosystems, bolstering fish populations and providing incredible destinations for scuba divers.

Diving on this barge offers a classic artificial reef experience. Its simple, open structure provides an ideal substrate for corals and sponges to grow, which in turn attracts a dense population of fish. Divers can expect to be greeted by schools of baitfish, spadefish, and barracuda. The waters off North Carolina are famous for larger visitors as well, and it's not uncommon to encounter sand tiger sharks cruising lazily around the structure during the summer months. This barge is a perfect example of how we can give old vessels a new purpose beneath the waves.

Marine Protected Area: La Digue Shell Reserve

Best Time to Dive in Inner Islands

The warmest water temperatures in Inner Islands occur in April, averaging 30.4°C. The coolest conditions are in August at 26.6°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 28.7°C
  • February: 29.0°C
  • March: 29.8°C
  • April: 30.4°C
  • May: 29.8°C
  • June: 28.5°C
  • July: 26.8°C
  • August: 26.6°C
  • September: 27.4°C
  • October: 28.3°C
  • November: 29.0°C
  • December: 29.1°C

Nearby Dive Sites in Inner Islands

Nearest Dive Centres to White Bank

Marine Life in Inner Islands

Home to 184 recorded species including 156 reef fish, 8 hard corals, 6 sharks & rays, 5 sea snails & nudibranchs, 4 whales & dolphins, 2 other.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for White Bank

Based on average water temperature of 28.6°C, currents 11 cm/s.

  • Shorty or Rashguard - warm 29°C water needs minimal exposure protection
  • Mask - essential for every dive
  • Fins
  • BCD - buoyancy compensator
  • Regulator - your most safety-critical piece of gear
  • Dive Computer - tracks depth, time, and NDL
  • Surface Marker Buoy (SMB) - essential for boat pickups
  • Dive Torch - useful for crevices and colour at depth
  • Underwater Camera - capture your diving memories

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical depth range for diving at the White Bank dive site?
The typical depth range for diving at White Bank is between 15 and 17 meters. This site features submerged granitic rocks, offering a comfortable depth for exploration within the Inner Islands of Seychelles.
What kind of marine life and coral formations can divers expect to see at White Bank?
Divers exploring White Bank can expect to encounter vibrant marine life amidst submerged granitic rocks, adorned with various sponges and corals. Keep an eye out for impressive species such as whitetip sharks, hawksbill turtles, schools of yellowfin soldierfish, angel fish, groupers, and spiny lobsters.
Is White Bank considered a beginner-friendly dive site, or is it more suitable for intermediate divers?
White Bank is considered an intermediate dive site, making it more suitable for divers with some experience. Its characteristics, including an average depth of 15-17 meters, are best enjoyed by those comfortable with slightly more challenging conditions.
What are the best months or times of year to dive at White Bank for optimal conditions?
Unfortunately, the provided data does not specify the best months or times of year for optimal diving conditions at White Bank. For general information on when to dive in the region, you may consult our When to Dive guide.
What scuba diving certifications are recommended or required to dive at White Bank?
The provided data does not specify any particular scuba diving certifications recommended or required for diving at White Bank. Given its intermediate difficulty, a minimum of an Open Water Diver certification is typically expected for such sites, but it's always best to confirm with a local dive operator.
What are the typical current and visibility conditions like at the White Bank dive site?
Divers at White Bank can typically expect good visibility, averaging around 16 meters. The provided information does not specify the typical current conditions at this site, so it's advisable to check with a local dive center before your dive.