Benzonia was built as part of the WWI shipbuilding effort to provide cargo vessels quickly, but ultimately was never fully utilized to this end. Although not highlighted for the work it accomplished, Benzonia is now an excellent example of the unpredictable and awesome force of nature. In 2003, the remains of Benzonia were lifted on top of another USSB wreck, Caribou, during hurricane Isabel. Overtime, vessels have shifted from their original positions of 1929, due to seasonal current changes and weather patterns, but the Benzonia wreck may be the most striking among the Ghost Fleet.
Aowa
<span>This site is considered to be among the best preserved wooden steamship wrecks in the sanctuary, with the propeller shaft tunnel as one of the most notably preserved features at the site. The propeller shaft has at least five shaft casing mounts still in place. Unfortunately however, due to its position on the outer tier of remaining vessel sites, this exposes the remains to frequently turbulent water conditions, and submersion during high tide, making it one of the most difficult to access. The hull has been in its present location since at least 1929.</span>
iNaturalist Observations
