What-To-Do in Panama City Beach Issue no. 1 2025-2026 - Magazine - Page 9
tat, this wreck has contributed to the preservation
of marine biodiversity in the area. Its accessibility
and thriving marine life make it a popular choice
for divers visiting Panama City Beach.
A Scuba Diver explores a shipwreck
in Panama City Beach
Discovering The Empire Mica: A
Snorkeler’s Paradise
The Empire Mica, an oil tanker, was torpedoed
during World War II by a German U-boat. This
tragic event left the ship resting 115 feet below
the surface but within reach for snorkelers who
wish to admire it from above. Its shallow depth
and clear waters provide an ideal setting for those
who prefer snorkeling over diving.
The Empire Mica is a hotspot for marine life,
with schools of fish darting through the wreckage and colorful corals adorning its surfaces.
Snorkelers, floating above the sunken ship, can
enjoy the sight of turtles gliding gracefully around
the wreck and the occasional dolphin swimming
by. The vibrant underwater scene is a testament to
the resilience of nature It’s a perfect way to enjoy
the beauty of Panama City Beach’s waters without
the need for diving equipment.
The E.E. Simpson Tug Boat: A Unique
Dive Experience
The E.E. Simpson Tug Boat, intentionally sunk to
create an artificial reef, has become a beloved dive
site. Located in shallower waters, it is accessible
to divers of all experience levels. Despite its small
size compared to other wrecks, it offers a unique
and rewarding dive experience.
Divers exploring the E.E. Simpson can expect to
encounter a variety of marine species. The wreck is
a haven for smaller fish, and its structure provides
ample hiding spots for creatures like octopuses
and moray eels. The tug boat’s compact size allows
divers to explore every nook and cranny, making it
a fascinating dive.
The E.E. Simpson Tug Boat is a testament to the
success of artificial reefs. By creating a new habi-
Exploring The Chippewa: Stories
from the Deep
The Chippewa, a World War II-era minesweeper,
now lies in the Gulf’s depths, offering a hauntingly
beautiful dive. Sunk in 1947, this wreck provides a
window into military history. Divers are drawn to
The Chippewa for its historical significance and the
wealth of marine life that has made it home.
Exploring The Chippewa allows divers to witness the transformation of a military vessel into
a thriving marine habitat. The ship’s structure has
become encrusted with coral, attracting a multitude of fish species. The combination of historical intrigue and ecological diversity makes The
Chippewa a captivating dive.
As you navigate through the ship’s remains, you
can reflect on its past and the role it played during the war. The stories from the deep are alive in
every corner of this fascinating wreck.
The USS Strength: A Military
Maritime Legacy
The USS Strength, a minesweeper from World
War II, is one of the most famous shipwrecks off
Panama City Beach. After serving in the war, it was
deliberately sunk to create an artificial reef. Today,
it stands as a testament to the area’s rich maritime
history and offers a remarkable dive experience.
Divers exploring the USS Strength corridors and
decks will find a well-preserved wreck teeming
with marine life. The ship’s structure provides shelter for a variety of fish species, and its history adds
an extra layer of intrigue to the dive. The wreck’s
accessibility makes it a popular choice for divers of
all skill levels. It’s a must-see for anyone interested
in both diving and history.
The shipwrecks of Panama City Beach offer a
captivating blend of history, adventure, and natural
beauty. From the storied past of The S.S. Tarpon
to the vibrant marine life surrounding The Empire
Mica, each wreck provides a unique experience for
divers and snorkelers alike. The chance to explore
these underwater relics is a testament to the area’s
rich maritime heritage. Whether you’re diving into
the depths or snorkeling above, the allure of these
shipwrecks is undeniable.
If you’re planning a trip to Panama City Beach,
let What-To-Do in Panama City Beach help you
plan your shipwreck vacation. Dive into history
and discover the secrets of the shipwrecks of
Panama City Beach!
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