R/V Cape Hatteras to Begin New Chapter as Artificial Reef

Wilmington, NC (October 23, 2026) – Cape Fear Community College plans to donate the R/V Cape Hatteras to the North Carolina Division of Marine Fisheries, giving the college’s longtime research vessel a new purpose as an artificial reef.

The vessel is currently on its final student training voyage, with students scheduled to return Sunday, Oct. 25. On Tuesday, Oct. 27, the Cape Hatteras will depart CFCC’s dock for the final time as it begins the transition to its new role.

The vessel, which CFCC purchased in 2013, has served as a floating classroom for Marine Technology students. Its next chapter will take it below the surface, where it will provide a habitat for marine life and a destination for recreational fishing and diving.

Plans call for the vessel to be sunk approximately 18 miles off Wrightsville Beach. Preparation is expected to take three to four months, with deployment tentatively this spring. The process will include preparing the vessel to meet environmental requirements for use as an artificial reef.

“The R/V Cape Hatteras has been the backbone of our students’ hands-on, offshore training for many years,” said Shawna Rowe, CFCC’s Marine Technology program director. “It’s hard to say goodbye to a ship that holds so many memories, but knowing she’ll continue to support marine life makes this a fitting next chapter.”

The CFCC Foundation also plans to offer an opportunity for alumni, former crew members and the general public to honor someone with a lasting tribute aboard the ship. Additional details will be shared as plans are finalized.

A new 86-foot catamaran is currently under construction for the college and is expected to arrive this winter, marking a new chapter of CFCC’s longstanding tradition of hands-on learning at sea.