Empire Gem

Fast Facts:

• Average Depth:  140 ft. / 43 m
• Max Depth: 160 ft. / 49 m

Features:

• Wreck Site
• Artificial Reef

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The British tanker, Empire Gem, was en route from Texas to the United Kingdom with a full cargo of more than 10,000 gallons of gasoline when she was sunk in 1942 by a German U-boat. The Gem was approximately 15 miles southeast of the Diamond Shoals when it was rocked by an explosion. Only three officers survived the attack. They were able to anchor the ship and

radio SOS. When a U.S. Coast Guard ship arrived, the men were forced to dive into the waters to swim for the rescue ship. Unfortunately, the burning gasoline and turbulent seas swept away one man and only two made it to the lifeboat.

Very strong currents, deep depth, and low visibility make the Empire Gem a spot to dive only in good weather. This is a dive for experienced, advanced, wreck divers as the bottom lies at almost 160 feet. The ship rises 30 feet off the bottom and has plenty of holes and debris to explore. The bow is upside-down and is the larger section. The wheelhouse is also upside-down a few yards off to the side. The stern is the most interesting section as it is mostly upright and much of the internal areas are exposed.