Cape Fear Community College to Sink Research Vessel

The R/V Cape Hatteras will become an artificial reef off Wrightsville Beach starting this October.

Updated on Oct. 23, 2026 in Aquariums

Cape Fear Community College to Sink Research Vessel

Live Poll

Do you support converting decommissioned ships into artificial reefs to boost local marine life and recreation?

Cape Fear Community College plans to donate its R/V Cape Hatteras to the North Carolina Division of Marine Fisheries to serve as an artificial reef. The vessel is currently finishing its final student training voyage before it is sunk 18 miles off Wrightsville Beach.

Why it matters

The transformation of this research vessel into a reef is intended to create a new habitat for marine life. Once submerged, the site will also provide a designated destination for local fishing and diving enthusiasts.

The artificial reef site is located 18 miles off the coast of Wrightsville Beach. Preparation of the ship for its new underwater role is expected to take three to four months.

The players

Cape Fear Community College

An institution based in Wilmington, N.C., that provides technical and vocational education.

North Carolina Division of Marine Fisheries

The state agency responsible for the stewardship of North Carolina's marine and estuarine resources.

The details

The vessel will undergo a rigorous cleanup and preparation process to ensure it is safe for the ocean environment. Following the donation to state authorities, the ship will be deployed to the seafloor in the spring of 2027.

October 25, 2026: The R/V Cape Hatteras concludes its final student training voyage.
October 27, 2026: The vessel begins the transition to its new role as an artificial reef.
Winter 2026/2027: A new catamaran for the college is expected to arrive.
Spring 2027: The ship is tentatively scheduled for deployment as an artificial reef.

Culture Shift

This project reflects a growing trend of repurposing retired maritime assets to boost biodiversity in coastal waters. The vessel joins a network of artificial habitats, following the established guidelines of the North Carolina Artificial Reef Program.

Local fishing and diving enthusiasts will gain a new underwater destination located 18 miles offshore. Residents should expect the reef to become accessible for recreational use following the spring 2027 deployment.

The takeaway

Repurposing decommissioned vessels provides a sustainable way to enhance marine ecosystems while creating new recreational opportunities. Local divers and anglers can look forward to a new environment for ocean activity once the reef is officially established.