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Wreck of U-85

Diving the U-85 is a proper North Carolina wreck dive, no doubt about it. This isn't some purpose-sunk playground. You're dropping onto a genuine piece of history, a German U-boat sunk by the USS Roper in 1942. It’s sitting pretty upright at around 40-45 meters, often in currents that can be a bit frisky, so we only recommend this for experienced wreck divers. What we love about the U-85 is the drama of it all. As you descend, the dark shape emerges from the green water, often shrouded in schooling baitfish – think huge shoals of alewife and pigfish so thick they block the light. The conning tower is still largely intact, and you can peer into the torpedo tubes, imagining the crew’s final moments. Barracuda often hang motionless near the structure, and we’ve seen some hefty tuna patrolling the periphery. Keep an eye out for sandbar sharks, too; they love to cruise the deeper wrecks here. The stern is a bit more broken up, but the bow holds its shape well. We always feel a real sense of connection to history here. Our top tip? Go on a day with minimal surface swell. It really improves the experience when you don't have to fight the surge on the bottom.