Ages 15+ • 6.5 Hours
Explore the massive USS Oriskany aircraft carrier wreck off Pensacola, Florida, on a certified advanced dive. Experience deep-water exploration among an artificial reef alive with marine life and naval history.
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Difficulty
challenging
Duration
6–7 hours
Fitness Level
Good physical shape and comfort with deep dives required due to length and depth of each dive session.
Wildlife
History
USS Oriskany was one of the largest aircraft carriers in the US Navy before being sunk in 2006 to create an artificial reef.
Conservation
The reef is closely monitored to preserve coral growth and marine habitats, promoting sustainable diving practices.
H2O Below Dive Charters
Ages 15+ • 6.5 Hours
H2O Below Dive Charters is a Pensacola, Florida dive operator specializing in two-dive charters in the northern Gulf of Mexico. The company runs trips to a range of wrecks, artificial reefs, and oil rig sites, offering day charters that visit sites such as the LuLu freighter, Fairfield New Venture, San Pabal, Liberty Ship wreck, Avocet and Chevron oil rigs, Pete Tide 2, Brass Wreck and the US carrier Oriskany. Trips include inshore, midshore, offshore and dedicated Oriskany excursions, with advertised durations ranging from 4.5 to 6.5 hours for many two-dive trips.
H2O Below Dive Charters operates for certified divers and posts specific depth and certification requirements for each trip. Inshore charters explore wrecks at 85 feet or less, midshore trips reach up to 100 feet, offshore routes dive beyond 100 feet, and Oriskany dives require advanced certification or a minimum of 40 logged dives. The vessel departs from Pensacola and focuses on safe, organized charters with clear trip descriptions and site selections. Equipment rental, air fills, and briefing procedures are commonly provided by dive charters in the region; prospective divers should confirm what H2O Below includes on each trip before booking. The operator’s public listings feature detailed trip names and summaries to help divers choose the appropriate site, depth and skill level. H2O Below Dive Charters serves recreational and advanced recreational divers seeking wreck exploration and structured two-dive experiences in the Gulf. Bookings are available through the operator’s public schedule and should be confirmed in advance for desired dates and equipment.
Location
Pensacola, FL
Gulf of Mexico departures
Trip Durations
4.5–6.5 hrs
Half- to full-day two-dive trips
Oriskany Requirement
Advanced cert or 40 dives
Deep wreck access only
Tours Offered
5 two-dive trips
Varied wrecks, rigs, and reefs
Select the right two-dive trip for skill level and depth — book early for preferred dates and sites.
Advanced Certification Required
Ensure you have advanced open water certification or 40+ logged dives to safely navigate the deep wreck and currents.
Bring a Dive Light
The interior of the ship can be dim; a reliable dive light will enhance visibility in enclosed spaces.
Check Weather and Sea Conditions
Strong Gulf currents can affect dive safety; consult local operators about daily conditions before booking.
Use a Surface Marker Buoy
Safety protocols recommend deploying a SMB for ascent in open waters to alert boat traffic.
Advanced Dive Computer
Tracks depth and decompression status crucial for deep wreck diving.
Underwater Dive Light
Illuminates dark interiors and improves safety inside the ship’s compartments.
Surface Marker Buoy (SMB)
Required for safe ascent to warn boats in the dive area.
Wet or Semi-Dry Suit
Provides thermal protection throughout year-round Gulf conditions during dives.
spring;summer;fall;winter