Maritime Heritage
2014 National Marine Sanctuaries Annual Report

Discovery of U-576 and Bluefields

Following nearly six years of historical research and searching, MNMS located the remains of the German U-boat, U-576, within 250 meters of its victim, Nicaraguan freighter Bluefields. The discovery was the culmination of a strategic partnership with Bureau of Ocean Energy Management, the University of North Carolina Coastal Studies Institute, East Carolina University, the National Park Service and other NOAA offices. This discovery represents an entire lost battlefield. Additionally, it serves as both a perfect example of a classic convoy battle on the east coast and as a memorial for those lost in the engagement.

Charles W. Morgan's 38th Voyage

The last surviving wooden whaleship, the Charles W. Morgan, undertook its 38th voyage after an 80-year hiatus when it sailed to Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary (SBNMS) in June. The Morgan visited former New England whaling ports and raised awareness about today’s marine mammal conservation efforts. Sanctuary staff helped produce nine OceansLive web TV programs that attracted approximately 25,000 viewers. NOAA’s Office of National Marine Sanctuaries partnered with Mystic Seaport to host an exhibit tent at the dockside village at each port of call, which attracted more than 62,000 visitors.