wreck

Log This Dive

Hanks Trawler

Hanks Trawler is one of those North Carolina wrecks we find ourselves drawn back to, time and again. It’s not a massive wreck, but it’s remarkably intact for something sitting in these sometimes-challenging Atlantic currents. Dropping down, the outline of the trawler takes shape quite quickly, often shrouded in a hazy green light that feels uniquely North Carolina. We love picking out the details of the working boat, the davits, the winch gear, even some of the fishing equipment still discernible. The real draw here, though, is the life that has made this trawler home. Schools of baitfish pulse around the superstructure, creating a living curtain you can swim through. We often spot amberjacks cruising by, eyeing up an easy meal, and the occasional sand tiger shark will make a lazy pass, adding a real thrill. For photographers, the way light filters through the wreck’s breaches, illuminating dense clusters of anemones and sponges, creates some beautiful opportunities. It’s a great site for divers who appreciate a well-preserved piece of history and the vibrant ecosystem it now supports, without requiring extreme depths or technical skills. Just be mindful of those currents, they can pick up.