wreck

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USS John C Butler DD-339

The USS John C. Butler, DD-339, isn't just a pile of metal on the seabed, it’s a genuine piece of history, and we love diving it for that exact reason. Dropping down, you immediately sense the scale of this destroyer escort, even in its broken state. There's a real drama to how it’s settled, especially the way the stern section angles into the sand, making for some fantastic swim-throughs if you're comfortable with overhead environments. Our favourite part has to be exploring the engine room. It’s remarkably intact, with gauges still visible, and you can almost hear the hum of machinery. Keep an eye out for the resident cabezon – they often hang out in the shadowy corners of the deeper sections. Visibility can be hit or miss, typical for Southern California, so we always aim for a dive after a few days of calm seas. It’s definitely a site for experienced wreck divers; the currents here can be a bit frisky, and it's deep enough that you need to watch your bottom time.