Republic
Wreck · Jupiter
27° 00.630' N 80° 02.610' W
Open Water Max 50 ft Avg 45 ft Temporary Line
Today AMPoor
Details
Open Water
Minimum recommended certification
- Max depth
- 50 ft
- Average depth
- 45 ft
- Access
- Temporary Line
- Sea state today
- AMPoor PMPoor
Where it is
27° 00.630' N 80° 02.610' W
Next boats to this site 0
No confirmed trips to this site are listed yet.
Best Gas
Gas prices
| Diluent tank | $35.50 |
| O2 tank | $10.00 |
atm
atm
Gas prices
| Aluminum 80 | $10 |
| Steel HP 100 | $10 |
| Steel LP 85 | $10 |
NDL at is
24 hr min surface interval
Always use a dive computer
Wreck Details
Sunk February 21st, 11942
Tanker
392 ftLength
51 ftBeam
Site description
The Republic Wreck, located off the coast of Jupiter, Florida, is a popular dive site known for its rich history and vibrant marine life. The wreck is the remains of the Republic, a freighter that was intentionally sunk to create an artificial reef. It lies in about 85 feet of water, making it accessible to intermediate and advanced divers. The structure of the wreck provides a fascinating underwater landscape, with various sections of the ship still intact and teeming with marine life.
Divers exploring the Republic Wreck can expect to encounter a diverse array of marine species. The wreck is home to schools of fish, including snapper, grouper, and barracuda. The nooks and crannies of the wreck provide hiding spots for smaller creatures like shrimp and crabs, while larger pelagic species such as sharks and rays are also frequently spotted in the area. The vibrant coral and sponge growth on the wreck add to its allure, making it a favorite spot for underwater photography.
The currents around the Republic Wreck can be strong, so it’s important for divers to be prepared and follow safety guidelines. Despite the challenges, the site offers a rewarding diving experience with its combination of historical intrigue and marine biodiversity. The clear waters and the dramatic structure of the wreck make it a must-visit site for divers in the Jupiter area.
Route & typical conditions
Route
The site is pretty small as of now and can easily be discovered in one dive. Only rubble is left from the mighty old tanker. This site is very rarely visited by any dive operator in the area.
Typical conditions
Visibility tends to be really good in this site with the tradeoff moderate to strong currents.
Wreck history
The Republic Wreck, located off the coast of Jupiter, Florida, has a rich and intriguing history. Originally launched as the Liberty Minquas in March 1920 by the Bethlehem Shipbuilding Corporation of Wilmington, Delaware, the vessel was initially built for the United States Shipping Board. In 1923, the American Petroleum Company purchased the ship and renamed it the Republic. The freighter served various roles over the years, primarily transporting goods along the East Coast.
During World War II, the Republic met its fate. On February 21, 1942, while en route from Paulsboro, New Jersey, to Port Arthur, Texas, the Republic was attacked by the German submarine U-504, commanded by Fritz Poske. The submarine fired two torpedoes, which struck the Republic on its port side, causing significant damage and leading to the ship’s sinking. The attack resulted in the loss of several crew members and marked the end of the Republic’s service.
Today, the Republic rests at a depth of about 85 feet, serving as an artificial reef and a popular dive site. The wreck is home to a diverse array of marine life, including schools of fish, barracudas, and even the occasional shark. The structure of the wreck provides a fascinating underwater landscape for divers to explore, with various sections of the ship still intact and teeming with marine life. The Republic Wreck not only offers a glimpse into maritime history but also supports a thriving underwater ecosystem.
Divers' uploaded pictures
No diver pictures yet.
