U.S.C.G.C. SPAR

My favorite place on the entire planet-- 110ft underwater on a wreck off the North Carolina coast, the U.S.C.G.C. SPAR.

I am a certified scuba diver and have been for over 5 years now. The most rewarding opportunity that has stemmed from becoming certified has been wreck diving. From shoving out of the slip in the wee hours of the morning to pulling back in and docking at night encompasses my vision of a successful day. I encounter so many people on the charter boat and whether they are friends or strangers, we all end up linked because of our sport.

There is something so peaceful about being that far underwater and witnessing a living piece of history. A ship that once served a purpose, such as an old Coast Guard Cutter, now takes on a completely different purpose as an Artificial Reef. It's almost ironic to think of, a ship that once mastered the seas has now been mastered by the creatures below. My friend and dive buddy Dan once said, "Diving is my church service. It's the closest I have come to a religious experience." And I can't help but agree. Spread before you are all facets of aquatic life and the delicate balance of an ecosystem. It's also an amazing experience to give back to "the community" by participating in events like the sinking of a ship for an Artificial Reef or an underwater beach sweep.

The Spar itself is an amazing vessel. Totaling a length of 180ft of welded steel, it was sunk in the past few years and has now become home to many tropical fish and sand tiger sharks.