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Exploring the U.S.S. Mohawk Veteran's Memorial Reef

• November 24, 2014

The U.S.S. Mohawk had a truly amazing life. A patrol gunboat for the US Coast Guard, it was built almost 100 years ago, in 1933. Shortly thereafter, in 1935, it was commissioned, and assigned to patrol and icebreaking duties on the Hudson and Delaware Rivers. When World War II broke out, the Mohawk was assigned to escort duties in the North Atlantic as part of the United States Naval Services. During this time, she launched 14 valiant attacks on enemy submarines and saved the lives of more than 300 soldiers in arctic waters. Post-war, she returned to her home in Port May, before being decommissioned in ’47. Finally, in 2012, the Mohawk made a final journey to the coastal waters of Florida. 30 miles off the coast of Fort Myers, she descended into the depths to her final resting place.


That brings catches us up to the present day. The 165 foot ship sits peacefully, 90 feet below the ocean’s surface. And now, you can explore her hallowed expanses as part of an exciting, diving excursion. Charters are offered by a number of reputable companies, including Reel FISHNSEA and Ultimate Gateway, who depart from Fort Myers Beach, just moments from our hotel.

Participation in one of these dives will treat you to not only the exploration of the resting Mohawk, but also to encounters with an abundance of sea life. November and December highlights include spadefish, barracudas, and a whole host of gorgeous grouper. At other times of the year, you might even be so lucky as to meet a hulking, but harmless whale shark.


Yes, now that its domain is the seafloor, the U.S.S. Mohawk is a destination for historians and nature lovers alike. And while her decks are now home to creatures of the sea, you’ll find they’re gracious hosts. So, for adventure seekers in Fort Myers, there’s no better option than donning some diving gear, and plunging into the deep blue.

Of course, you’ll want a place to rest your head when the adventure is done. In Fort Myers, there’s no better place to do this than our gorgeous Oceanside resort. Book your room now, and let the fun begin! 

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