Article at a Glance

• Location: 28 miles off the coast of Fort Myers, Florida (26°33’05.3″N, 82°43’28.6″W)
• Depth: Rests at 90 feet, with the main deck at about 60 feet
• History: Former WWII Coast Guard cutter, sunk in 2012 as an artificial reef
• Marine Life: Home to Goliath grouper, whale sharks, and diverse coral species
• Diving Experience: Accessible to advanced certified divers, offers wreck penetration
• Unique Features: Underwater art gallery, restored historical elements like guns and lifeboats
• Conservation: Serves as a thriving artificial reef and veterans memorial

USS Mohawk Wreck Location Coordinates and Depth

Depth

The wreck rests at a depth of approximately 90 feet of water, situated about 28 miles west of Sanibel Island, Florida.

Location Coordinates

• Coordinates: 26°33’05.3″N, 82°43’28.6″W (Bow)
• Midship: 26°33’04.5″N, 82°43’28.9″W
• Stern: 26°33’03.7″N, 82°43’29.2″W

What to Scuba Divers Say About This Wreck

• Diving Experience: The USS Mohawk is often referred to as Southwest Florida’s “crown jewel” of wreck dives. It sits upright at a depth of approximately 90 feet, with the main deck around 60 feet below the surface, making it accessible for wreck-certified divers. Many divers appreciate the ability to penetrate the wreck, exploring areas like the engine room and captain’s deck, which provide a haunting glimpse into its past life as a Coast Guard cutter.
• Marine Life: The wreck has become a vibrant artificial reef, home to a variety of marine species. Divers frequently encounter large schools of fish, including Goliath grouper, barracuda, and even whale sharks, which have been noted for their presence shortly after the wreck was sunk. The abundant marine life enhances the diving experience, making it a popular spot for underwater photography and exploration.
• Visibility and Conditions: Visibility at the site can vary, typically ranging from 35 to 70 feet, depending on current conditions. Divers have reported good visibility and relatively calm waters, which contribute to a pleasant diving experience.
• Unique Features: The wreck has been the site of artistic projects, such as an underwater art gallery featuring photographs that depict its historical significance. This creative addition has drawn even more divers to the site, eager to experience both the wreck and the art.

What Kind of Marine Life Can Be Found on The Wreck

• Goliath Grouper: This wreck is home to numerous Goliath grouper, some weighing over 300 pounds. These large fish are a highlight for divers, known for their impressive size and docile nature.
• Whale Sharks: The USS Mohawk serves as a frequent stop for whale sharks, particularly during their spawning migrations along the coast. Their presence adds excitement and allure to the dive site.
• Schools of Fish: Divers often observe large schools of baitfish around the wreck, creating a dynamic underwater scene. This abundance of smaller fish attracts larger predators, enhancing the biodiversity of the area.
• Corals and Sponges: The superstructure of the wreck is covered in various corals and sponges, contributing to the vibrant ecosystem. These organisms provide habitat and food for many marine species.
• Anemones: Divers can also find anemones attached to the wreck, adding to the colorful marine life present at the site.

Key Information

What Makes USS Mohawk a Unique Diving Experience

• Historical Significance: Originally a Coast Guard cutter, the USS Mohawk has a rich history, including serving in World War II and participating in the Greenland Patrol. It is credited with being the last ship to send weather information to General Eisenhower before the D-Day invasion. This historical context adds depth to the diving experience, allowing divers to connect with the ship’s past.
• Artificial Reef: Sunk in 2012 as part of Lee County’s artificial reef program, the USS Mohawk has quickly become a vibrant underwater habitat. It attracts a diverse range of marine life, including Goliath grouper and whale sharks, enhancing the biodiversity that divers can observe.
• Accessibility: Located about 28 miles off the coast of Fort Myers, the wreck sits upright at a depth of 90 feet, with the main deck at around 60 feet. This depth is accessible to certified wreck divers, making it a popular spot for those looking to explore wrecks without needing extensive travel.
• Unique Features: The wreck is equipped with restored features such as guns and a lifeboat, which provide interesting exploration opportunities. Divers can access various parts of the ship, including the engine room and captain’s deck, offering a haunting glimpse into its operational past.
• Artistic Additions: The USS Mohawk has been the site of unique artistic projects, such as underwater galleries featuring photographs that reflect its historical significance. These installations attract divers interested in both marine life and art, creating a multifaceted diving experience.
• Marine Ecosystem: The presence of diverse marine life, including schools of bait fish, corals, and sponges, contributes to a vibrant underwater environment. The wreck’s structure provides habitats for various species, making each dive a dynamic and lively experience.

What is The Full History of This Wreck

Early History and Commissioning

• Construction: The USS Mohawk, originally a Coast Guard cutter, was built in 1943 by the Charleston Shipbuilding and Drydock Company in South Carolina. It was commissioned on February 6, 1944.
• World War II Service: During World War II, the Mohawk served in the Atlantic, participating in anti-submarine warfare and convoy escort duties. It played a crucial role in protecting shipping lanes from German U-boats.

Post-War and Decommissioning

• Decommissioning: After the war, the USS Mohawk was decommissioned on January 24, 1950. It was then transferred to the United States Coast Guard, where it continued to serve until its final decommissioning in 1970.
• Final Years: Following its decommissioning, the ship was sold and repurposed for various uses, including serving as a museum ship in the 1990s. However, it fell into disrepair and was eventually abandoned.

Transformation into an Artificial Reef

• Sinking: In July 2012, the USS Mohawk was intentionally sunk off the coast of Fort Myers, Florida, as part of Lee County’s artificial reef program. The sinking aimed to create a habitat for marine life and enhance local diving opportunities.
• Current Status: The wreck now rests upright at a depth of approximately 90 feet, with the main deck at about 60 feet. It has become a popular dive site, attracting divers and marine life alike. The wreck is home to a variety of species, including Goliath grouper and whale sharks, and has been transformed into an underwater art gallery.

Legacy

The USS Mohawk serves as a reminder of its historical significance while contributing to marine conservation efforts. It has become a vibrant artificial reef, fostering biodiversity and providing a unique diving experience for enthusiasts. The wreck is not only a site for exploration but also a habitat that supports various marine species, illustrating the dual legacy of maritime history and ecological restoration.

What Historical Features Can Still Be Identified on Wreck

• Ship Structure: The USS Mohawk is a 165-foot vessel that sits upright on the ocean floor at a depth of approximately 90 feet. Its main deck is around 60 feet below the surface, making it accessible for divers. The ship’s structure includes the bridge, engine room, and various compartments that provide insight into its operational design.
• Restored Features: Upon sinking, the USS Mohawk was equipped with restored features to enhance its historical authenticity. This includes replica guns, depth charges, and a whale boat, which were added to preserve its wartime appearance. The ship was also painted with a fresh coat of wartime camouflage paint, making it visually striking underwater.
• Galleys and Captain’s Deck: Divers can access the ship’s galleys and captain’s deck, which offer a haunting glimpse into the vessel’s past life. These areas allow divers to imagine the daily operations and experiences of the crew during its service.
• Veterans Memorial Reef: The USS Mohawk has been designated as the U.S.S. Mohawk CGC Veterans Memorial Reef, dedicated to honoring all U.S. veterans. This aspect of its history adds a layer of significance to the dive site, as it serves as a memorial to those who served in the military.
• Marine Life Habitat: While not a historical feature in the traditional sense, the wreck has transformed into a vibrant artificial reef, supporting a diverse array of marine life, including Goliath grouper and whale sharks. This ecological aspect enhances the historical narrative, showcasing the ship’s continued legacy as a habitat for marine species.

What Safety Measures Are in Place for Divers Visiting USS Mohawk

• Advanced Certification Requirement: The USS Mohawk is situated at a depth of approximately 90 feet, which exceeds the limits for many recreational divers. As such, it is only accessible to advanced divers who possess the necessary certifications to dive at this depth. This requirement helps ensure that divers have the experience and training needed for safe exploration.
• Training and Experience Limits: All divers are trained to adhere to the limits of their training, equipment, and experience. This guideline is crucial for maintaining safety during dives, particularly in a wreck environment where conditions can vary.
• Dive Briefings: Dive operators typically conduct thorough briefings before dives, outlining the wreck’s layout, potential hazards, and emergency procedures. This preparation helps divers understand what to expect and how to navigate the wreck safely.
• Guided Dives: Many dive charters offer guided dives with experienced instructors who are familiar with the USS Mohawk. These guides can provide valuable insights into the wreck and assist divers in navigating safely through its structure.
• Emergency Equipment: Dive operators are equipped with emergency gear, including oxygen tanks and first aid kits, to address any potential issues that may arise during a dive.
• Monitoring Conditions: Dive operators monitor weather and water conditions closely, ensuring that dives are conducted only when conditions are safe. This includes assessing visibility, currents, and any potential hazards in the area.

Dive Shops That Prove Diving Trips to This Shipwreck

• Captain Pete’s Diving Outfitters: This dive shop provides trips to the USS Mohawk, offering guided dives and equipment rentals for divers interested in exploring this historic wreck.
• Scuba Schedules: This platform lists various dive operators that run trips to the USS Mohawk, emphasizing its status as a premier dive site in Southwest Florida.
• SWFL Waterways: This site also highlights the USS Mohawk as a dive attraction and may provide information on local dive shops that organize trips to the wreck.

South Florida Wrecks

• SS Copenhagen
• Captain Dan Wreck
• SS Arratoon
• Queen of Nassau
• USS Mohawk
• MV Castor
• Esso Bonaire III