Would the Oriskany be a better dive if she was on her side?

[texdiveguy]

I have not dove the Big 'O' yet.....but found the Discovery program interesting. Being an artificial reef that is avlb. for all levels of divers,,I think sitting in the upright position is best. I look forward to diving her both from the exterior and penetration runs. For those lucky enough to live close by,,,she will offer many enjoyable dives and exploring in the years to come.

 

[rhyz]

As I have dove her...upright for sure...why would you want her on her side? Tower has lots to look at and plenty of penetration to last for alot of dives. Tech divers get to explore the hangar and lower sections thats true but you can work your way up to that. I think upright she is more impressive.

 

[Gary D.]

I doubt a storm will roll her over. Bird farms like to remain upright even after sinking. Even with the O being unstable after her conversion I still think she will remain up right for a long long time to come.

Enjoy her as she is.

Gary D.

 

[packman]

You wouldn't gain anything by having her on her side. Unlike, say the Spiegel, there's no superstructure that runs the length of the ship. At best, you would get a longer look at her flight deck as it drops off into the void. Want to know what that looks like? Go find a large, empty parking lot and lay down on it with your head turned to the side. Now imagine that with, say, 50 ft vis. There's your view of the O's flight deck on it's side.

 

[BKP]

I don't think so...

If the Spiegel Grove is any indication, everyone that's dived it on its side, and now upright (that I've spoken to, anyway), is much more satisfied with the dive now...

 

[dab]

So, I was wondering... Would the USS Oriskany be a better dive if it was on her side? (port or starboard).


I haven't dove her.. (yet) but was watching the show on her sinking and wondered how different it would be.

One thing to consider is that the beam (width) of the flight deck is over 140 feet wide and I would expect would be "angled" upwards of on her side.


I'm just wondering for discussion sake. Especially if a large storm knocked her broadside and over.

No, upright is the preferable position.

 

[rookers]

I agree that it is fine just as it is as it is reachable by divers of all abilities except the very green or the 'very have not been in the water in a long time'. I think it will be a great wreck penetration when I feel capable. I will be on her in early November. Am planning 2 recreactional and one deco dive.