

Best for advanced divers, 24-65m, boat entry, moderate current.
The USS Oriskany is a decommissioned aircraft carrier resting upright on a sandy bottom at 65 metres. Sunk in 2006, this massive artificial reef features a flight deck at approximately 24 metres, allowing divers to explore the upper superstructure or descend deeper based on their certification and gas planning. Visibility typically ranges from 18 to 30 metres, providing clear views of the wreck's scale. Divers must navigate moderate currents and frequent thermoclines. Due to the significant depth, overhead environments within the wreck, and potential for entanglement, this site is strictly for advanced divers. Boat access is required, and charter operators provide descent lines to manage currents during entry and exit.
30.03500, -87.00107
Nitrox is worth running on this dive to manage narcosis and extend your time on the shallower superstructure at 24 to 30 metres. Book a charter out of Pensacola and confirm the operator provides a descent line, as the current can make a free descent impractical.
Charter boat access from Pensacola marina, approximately 25 nautical miles offshore.
Recorded at this site
Depth
24-65m
Visibility
18-30m
Skill Level
Advanced
Entry
Boat
Boat required
Water Temp
16-25°C
Current
Moderate
Typical Dive
60 min
No, this site is intended for advanced divers only due to the significant depths, overhead environments, and moderate currents.
The wreck sits on the bottom at 65 metres, with the flight deck located at approximately 24 metres.
This is a boat dive located approximately 40 kilometres offshore, requiring a charter to reach the site.
No, the depth of the flight deck at 24 metres makes this site unsuitable for snorkelling.
Hazards include significant depths, overhead environments within the wreck, entanglement risks, moderate currents, and thermoclines.
Diving at USS Oriskany in Pensacola requires the following certifications: Open Water, Advanced, Wreck, Deep, Nitrox. Always dive within your training limits.
A 5mm wetsuit is recommended for diving at USS Oriskany in Pensacola. Water temperatures range from 16°C to 25°C.
Expect moderate currents at USS Oriskany in Pensacola. Good buoyancy control and some drift diving experience is helpful.
Visibility at USS Oriskany in Pensacola typically ranges from 18 metres to 30 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.