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U-853 Wreck

U-853 Wreck

New England, United States

Depth
Depth Icon

39m

Visibility
Visibility Icon

5m - 14m

Entry
Boat Entry Icon

Boat

Experience Level

Advanced

U-853 Wreck

New England, United States

U-853 Wreck
Depth
Depth Icon

39m

Visibility
Visibility Icon

5m - 14m

Entry
Boat Entry Icon

Boat

Experience Level

Advanced


About U-853 Wreck

This was a IXC Type German U Boat. She served in WW11. After Hitler died, the new Fuhrer, Admiral Doenitz ordered all U boats to cease fire. Its believed that the U 853 disobeyed the orders and continued to attack. After she sank another vessel during this time, the Navy started looking for the U Boat to attack. The Germans fooled them by releasing debris, pillows, hats and other equipment from the submarine. this way the Navy would think that they have had a clean sweep. Minutes later they tracked the U Boat and the chase began again. This time the Navy disabled the U Boat and officially declared it dead. Shortly after, Navy divers descended to the wreck in attempt to penetrate and recover documents. Their attempt failed, and so the smallest diver in the team agreed to enter via the conning towers hatch. Here they found the lifeless floating bodies of the sailors. Its also believed that they had almost $ 2, 000, 000 of treasure onboard. Its a great and very interesting dive, with lots to see, and many artifacts to be found, yet it can only ve dived by advanced wreck divers due to the depth.

U-853 Wreck Dive Info

Terrain & Features

Reef, Wreck, Deep

Entry Type

Boat

Max Depth

39m

Visibility Range

5m 14m

Experience Level

Advanced

Best Gas Mix

21% – 29%

O2

14% at 37m / 30%

O2
Multi-Level Dive Planner
Photo gallery

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Marine Life

  • Bass
  • Groupers
  • Jacks
  • None
  • Striped Bass
  • Various
Weather Conditions

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Dive Operators near U-853 Wreck

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Location

Location details missing.

Dive Site Hazards

  • Hidden Depth Variations — Complex reef topography can conceal depth changes, leading to unintended profile variations.

  • Distraction from Marine Activity — High fish activity can distract divers and delay depth or gas awareness.

  • Rapid Surge Direction Changes — Surge near reef structures can reverse direction quickly, pushing divers sideways into unexpected areas.

  • Deceptive Entry Openings — Openings may become restrictive inside due to angle, collapse, or corrosion.

  • Surge-Induced Internal Silt Shift — Internal surge can move silt and debris without direct contact.

  • Partial Overhead Environment — Many wrecks limit direct ascent even without full penetration.

  • Fine Rust Particle Silt-Out — Disturbed rust particles can rapidly reduce visibility.

  • Gradual Narcosis Onset — Narcosis may develop slowly, making self-assessment unreliable.

  • Task Fixation at Depth — Cognitive narrowing at depth can reduce awareness of time and ascent rate.

  • Increased Gas Density Breathing Load — Higher gas density at depth increases work of breathing.

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