North Carolina, United States
    NOAA's Monitor National Marine Sanctuary

    Catherine M Monohan Wreck

    Best months: Jul–Sep

    Protected Area

    NOAA's Monitor National Marine Sanctuary

    Why dive here

    With 42+ marine species recorded in the area - including sea turtles - Catherine M Monohan Wreck offers some of North Carolina's richest wreck diving. Water ranges 12-28°C, warmest July, August, September.

    Best timeJul–Sep
    WetsuitA 3mm shorty or thin full wetsuit
    Marine lifeSea Turtles · 42+ species recorded
    Water12-28°C · warmest July, August, September
    CharacterWreck dive

    The Catherine M. Monohan, a steel-hulled freighter sunk during WWII, sits upright on the seabed off North Carolina. For us, what makes this wreck truly special is the way the ocean has completely reclaimed it. Her cargo holds are open, offering easy penetration for those comfortable with overhead environments. We’ve finned through them when the light streams down, illuminating massive schools of baitfish that swirl like liquid silver. Outside, the ship's superstructure is a fantastic habitat for sand tiger sharks, particularly in late summer and early autumn. We’ve often found them patrolling the bow, their toothy grins a welcome sight against the deep blue. Keep an eye out for Goliath groupers too, often lurking under the deeper overhangs. While the visibility can be variable, a good day here delivers a hauntingly beautiful dive, perfect for advanced divers who appreciate history and serious shark encounters.

    Safety Notes

    Wreck site - avoid penetration without wreck diving certification. Watch for sharp metal and entanglement hazards.

    Today06:0517:3611h 31m daylightGolden hour 17:02

    Reviews for Catherine M Monohan Wreck

    Sign in to write a review

    Conditions

    Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for Catherine M Monohan Wreck

    Catherine M Monohan Wreck Ocean Conditions

    Monthly averages for Catherine M Monohan Wreck, sourced from Open-Meteo marine data - nearest station: Open-Meteo marine grid (34.6, -76.6) (0km away)

    ExcellentGreatGoodFairPoor★Best monthsThis month

    October Averages

    Sea Temperature

    23°C

    73°F · Range: 19.9–26.4°C

    Air Temperature

    20°C

    67°F

    Wind Speed

    1.8 m/s

    3.5 knots

    Atmospheric Pressure

    1016.7 hPa

    Based on 4 years of monitoring data · Data sources: Open-Meteo marine data

    Plan & book

    Ways to dive North Carolina, from day trips to liveaboards.

    Day trips & courses

    via GetYourGuide

    Guided dives, courses and snorkel trips with instant booking.

    Find dive trips in North Carolina

    Places to stay

    via Booking.com

    Hotels and dive resorts near North Carolina.

    Search stays in North Carolina

    Dive insurance

    Most travel insurance excludes or limits scuba. Check what you need before you go.

    Dive insurance explained

    Partner links: we may earn a commission if you book, at no extra cost to you. How we make money

    Where to Stay near Catherine M Monohan Wreck

    Prices from Booking.com. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

    Back to North Carolina