What-To-Do in Panama City Beach Issue no. 1 2025-2026 - Magazine - Page 14
SHIPWRECKS
PA N A M A C I T Y B E A C H , F L
Panama City Beach, located on the stunning
Gulf Coast of Florida, is not only a paradise for
sun-seekers but also a haven for diving enthusiasts. For those planning a visit to this enchanting
location, diving into the depths of these shipwrecks offers a journey through time. Beneath
its turquoise waters lies a treasure trove of history waiting to be explored—the shipwrecks of
Panama City Beach. These underwater relics tell
tales of maritime adventures, offering both divers
and snorkelers a unique opportunity to connect
with the past. So, grab your gear and get ready to
uncover the secrets hidden beneath the waves.
The allure of these shipwrecks extends beyond
their historical significance. They have become
thriving ecosystems, providing habitats for a myriad
of marine life. Whether you are a seasoned diver or
a curious snorkeler, the shipwrecks of Panama City
Beach promise an unforgettable adventure. From
novice divers to experienced explorers, there’s
something for everyone beneath these waves.
The shipwrecks off the coast of Panama City
Beach are pieces of history that have stood the test
of time. Many of these shipwrecks date back to the
early 20th century, each with its own story to tell.
Some met their fate due to storms, while others
were deliberately sunk to create artificial reefs.
During the World Wars, the waters around
Panama City Beach were bustling with maritime
activity. Ships carrying supplies and troops often
traversed these waters, and not all of them made
it to their destinations. The remnants of these vesWhatToDoInPanamaCityBeach.com
sels now rest beneath the waves, serving as silent
witnesses to the past and offering a glimpse into a
different era.
Panama City Beach boasts an impressive array
of shipwrecks, each offering its own unique diving
experience. Among the most notable are The S.S.
Tarpon, The Empire Mica, The E.E. Simpson Tug
Boat, The Chippewa, and The USS Strength. Each
wreck holds a special place in maritime history and
offers divers a chance to explore a different facet
of the past.
The S.S. Tarpon: A Dive into History
The S.S. Tarpon, a cargo steamer, met its
untimely end in 1937. Known for its regular voyages between Mobile and Panama City, the ship
encountered a powerful storm that ultimately led
to its sinking. Today, it rests 95 feet below the surface, providing an awe-inspiring dive site for those
eager to explore its remains.
Divers visiting The S.S. Tarpon can expect to
find a well-preserved wreck, with much of the
ship’s structure still intact. The hull provides shelter for a variety of marine life, including grouper,
snapper, and barracuda. The ship’s history and its
transformation into a vibrant underwater habitat
make it a favorite among divers.
As you swim through the ship’s corridors and
peer into its cargo holds, you can’t help but imagine the ship’s storied past. The combination of history and marine biodiversity makes it a must-see
for anyone diving in Panama City Beach.
