Diving atJosephine Marie (United States)
The Josephine Marie wreck offers a direct connection to Massachusetts Bay's maritime past. Lost in 1992, this steel-hulled fishing trawler now rests in 32 m (105 ft) of water north of Provincetown. Settled upside-down on Stellwagen Bank, it presents a challenging yet rewarding experience for deeper wreck divers.
Tonight's objective overview for Josephine Marie shows an air temperature of 6.2°C. The measured surface conditions include wave heights around 0.54m. This environmental data is logged for the close of the day.
Dive Site Coordinates
42.1821, -70.2244
Dive Site Overview
A steel-hulled stern trawler built in 1969, the Josephine Marie actively plied the waters of Massachusetts Bay until February 1, 1992. Returning from a routine fishing trip, its crew reported the vessel taking on water after striking an unknown submerged object.
Despite Coast Guard efforts to lower pumps, rough 15 to 20-foot seas prevented their effective use. Crew members ultimately abandoned ship and were safely rescued by the F/V Italian Gold, leaving the trawler to founder. Subsequent survey dives in 1992 could not definitively pinpoint the cause of the sinking or obvious damage.
Speculation arose regarding a deteriorated hatch, though inspecting it proved impossible given the ship's inverted orientation. Today, this vessel lies in 32 m (105 ft) of water on Stellwagen Bank, oriented upside down, or 'turtled.' Spanning 24 m (80 ft) in length and 6-7.6 m (20-25 ft) in breadth, sand now obstructs any potential interior access. Diver attention primarily focuses on exterior features, particularly its prominent propeller.
Best Time to Dive
Planning a dive to the Josephine Marie is best during the summer months, specifically June through September, when conditions are generally most favorable. During this period, average air temperatures are considerably warmer, ranging from 16.6°C (61.9°F) in June to 20.4°C (68.7°F) in July, making surface intervals more comfortable. Wave heights also tend to be at their lowest, typically below 1 meter, which translates to smoother boat rides to the site and calmer descent conditions. Wind speeds similarly decrease, hovering around 28-30 km/h (17-19 mph), contributing to a better overall experience. While April, May, October, and November offer moderate dive scores, colder air temperatures and higher waves often increase the logistical challenge. Winter months, from December to March, consistently show poor dive scores due to air temperatures near freezing and significantly higher wave activity.
Climate Historical Averages
Monthly records compiled from satellite and marine observation nodes over the last 3 years. Data provided by Open-Meteo and MET Norway.
Dive Experience & Conditions
Diving the Josephine Marie requires careful consideration of prevailing conditions at this deeper wreck site. Resting at a maximum depth of 32 m (105 ft), the trawler is accessible to experienced divers comfortable with deep profiles. Currents around the wreck can be swift, making precise dive timing crucial; divers must plan to enter the water during slack tide to ensure a manageable exploration. The vessel itself lies upside down, a 'turtled' position that has largely sealed off interior compartments. Despite this, exposed propeller, bow, and rudder areas offer compelling features. These structures, along with various sections of piping, provide complex environments for marine life, making external inspection a primary focus.
Dive Difficulty & Safety Guidelines
Diving the Josephine Marie demands a high level of diver skill and awareness due to specific site challenges. Swift currents are a common factor, necessitating meticulous dive planning centered around slack water periods to avoid being swept away or experiencing strenuous conditions. Always confirming current predictions before entry is vital. Additionally, the wreck is subject to lost fishing gear, which can present an entanglement hazard; divers should maintain situational awareness and carry appropriate cutting tools. Given the site's maximum depth of 32 m (105 ft), only divers certified for advanced or deep diving should attempt this expedition. Interior access is impossible due to the wreck's inverted orientation and sand-filled holds, so focus remains strictly on the exterior. Divers should always adhere to their certification limits and consider the cold water environment requiring adequate thermal protection.
Recommended Equipment
No verified equipment items yet.
Verified equipment recommendations for this dive site are being reviewed and may be added as additional source checks are completed.
Recommended Dive Suit
For divers planning standard recreational dives, drysuit (strongly recommended) is usually a suitable option. Strong cold advisory: dress warmly immediately after exiting the water. Divers vary widely in how quickly they feel cold underwater.
Conditions at Josephine Marie currently place the water temperature near 7°C (45°F). Surface air temperatures are resting at 6°C (43°F).
The upcoming forecast points to generally steady conditions in the area.
Conditions last reviewed: 18:00 using the latest environmental data.
Dive Logistics & Preparation
Hyperbaric Chamber
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Entry Requirements
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Currency
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Marine Life at Josephine Marie
Brightly colored invertebrates frequently coat the Josephine Marie, providing vibrant visual interest against the steel hull. As you approach, you'll first notice the substantial growth on the wreck's exterior surfaces. Sponges and anemones colonize the bow, rudder, and any exposed piping, creating miniature ecosystems. Sea stars are often observed clinging to the keel and keel coolers. Various fish species also utilize the wreck's structure for shelter and foraging, adding dynamic elements to the underwater landscape.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the depth of the Josephine Marie wreck?
Lying at approximately 32 m (105 ft), this wreck requires advanced certification and deep diving experience. It's not suitable for beginners.
What is the wreck's current orientation?
The Josephine Marie lies 'turtled,' or upside down on the seabed. This position, along with sand blockage, prevents any interior access.
Are there strong currents at the site?
Currents around the Josephine Marie can be swift. Plan dives to coincide with slack water for a safer, more manageable experience.
What kind of marine life can be observed?
Brightly colored invertebrates, such as sponges, anemones, and sea stars, cover the wreck. Many fish species also inhabit the bow, rudder, and exposed piping, seeking shelter and food.
When is the best time to dive the Josephine Marie?
Diving is generally best from June through September. Milder air temperatures and lower wave heights/wind speeds during these months lead to better conditions.
Is interior penetration possible into the wreck?
Interior penetration of the Josephine Marie is not possible. The wreck's turtled position and sand-blocked entry points seal off all internal areas.
What is the history behind the Josephine Marie's sinking?
Josephine Marie, a fishing trawler, foundered on February 1, 1992, after striking an unknown submerged object. Crew members were rescued, but the vessel was lost due to unmanageable flooding in rough seas.
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