W E Hutton Wreck

Best months: Jul–Sep

Protected Area

Queen Anne's Revenge Shipwreck

Why dive here

With 42+ marine species recorded in the area - including sea turtles - W E Hutton 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 W.E. Hutton is one of North Carolina’s classic wreck dives, and we love it for its sheer scale and the way the ocean has truly claimed it. This isn't some scattered debris field; it’s a substantial steamer, mostly intact, lying on its starboard side. Descending onto the Hutton, you immediately feel the history. The bow, stern, and massive engine room are all distinguishable, creating incredible swim-throughs and plenty of places to peek inside. Visibility here can swing, but on a good day, the Hutton looms out of the green, draped in sea anemones and sponges. Look for schooling barracuda hanging off the mast structure, and we’ve often seen sand tiger sharks cruising the deeper sections around the wreck, a truly electrifying sight. This dive suits experienced wreck divers comfortable with potential currents and cooler temperatures. Our tip? Go with a local charter that knows the wreck's contours; there are so many nooks and crannies to explore. It’s a proper expedition, not just a quick peek.