USS San Diego - New England

The USS San Diego is a proper war grave, a powerful dive. It’s a big chunk of history, sunk by a mine in 1944 off Long Island. We’ve always found it impressive how intact she is, lying on her port side in about 33 meters. When you drop down, the sheer scale hits you – the hull stretches out, silhouetted against the greener light of the North Atlantic. Visibility is often the biggest variable, but on a good day, you can make out the anti-aircraft guns, still pointing skyward, and the bridge structure. Our favourite part is swimming along the decks, imagining the chaos. Now, it’s all peace and quiet, a home for massive schools of pollock that swirl around the superstructure, and ling cod tucked into every crevice. We’ve even spotted big tautog patrolling the deeper sections. This isn’t a colourful coral dive; it's a moody, atmospheric exploration for divers who appreciate history and don’t mind a bit of a chill. Definitely bring a good light; it makes a huge difference to pick out the details in the dim light.

Location

New England, United States, North America

Coordinates

40.550100, -73.007890

Type

wreck

Marine Protected Area: Fire Island National Seashore