The Sinking of The African Queen
The steam powered, steel-hulled tanker African Queen was constructed in 1955. Measuring an impressive 590 feet in length with a 75-foot beam, this tanker displaced 13,800 gross tons, making it a significant craft of its time. On December 30, 1958, the massive African Queen found herself navigating through a furious storm on her journey from New Jersey to Philadelphia. It was during this fateful voyage that the big ship met its untimely end by running aground on Gull Shoal.
The Final Voyage
In a desperate effort to salvage the situation, Captain Danielsen gave the order for full astern in a bid to dislodge the vessel from the shoal. However, the relentless waves and the strain of the backward pull proved too much for the vessel. The African Queen tragically broke in half under the stress, causing a catastrophic oil spill and an environmental disaster.
A Tragic Outcome But All Lives Saved
The African Queen's demise was swift, as she succumbed to the elements and sank in a mere 30 feet of water. Miraculously, through the swift action of Coast Guard helicopters, all of her crew were rescued, preventing the loss of life in this nautical calamity.
Lingering Remnants of the African Queen
In the subsequent years, parts of the wreck have been salvaged. Her entire stern section was re-floated and towed ashore, leaving behind the bow section. Today, divers can visit what remains of the African Queen. Resting upside down at a depth of 70 feet, her bow section still holds echoes of her past glory and is a beacon for marine life and underwater explorers.
Exploring the Depths
For marine enthusiasts and adventurous travelers, exploring the remnants of shipwrecks like the African Queen provides a unique blend of diving excitement and historical discovery. Each shipwreck along the Florida West Coast tells a different story, providing a submerged museum of maritime history waiting to be explored.
Beyond the dive sites, the surrounding areas offer a chance to relax and unwind, with various hotels and accommodation options catering to all preferences. Travelers can enjoy the comforts and amenities of coastal resorts after a day spent marveling at the wonders beneath the waves. Whether seeking tranquility on the beaches or the thrill of underwater discovery, the Florida West Coast's shipwreck trails afford an abundant travel experience that satiates the soul of any adventurer.