United States Lightship LV-117 - Later History

Later History

LV-117 was replaced by the LV-112. The Cunard–White Star Line paid for the construction of LV-112 as reparation for the accident.

The lightship now rests about 200 ft (61 m) deep, lying on her port side in an area with unpredictable currents up to 3 kn (5.6 km/h; 3.5 mph). The wreck of the vessel is remarkably intact; LV-117's aft mast lies alongside the hull of the ship, while the forward mast has been broken off, lying perpendicular to the wreck. It was discovered in the 1970s by Captain Paul Forsberg of the Viking Fleet fishing concern, though it was not clear at the time that the wreck was that of LV-117. Its identification was not confirmed until as late as July 1998 when an expedition led by diver Eric Takakjian made the first of what would be many visits to the wreck site. It is reported to be a difficult and dangerous dive, as the wreck is entangled in many fishing nets. Nonetheless Takakjian describes it as "fascinating" and "a really exciting and rewarding experience" to visit. He was surprised to find how well-preserved it was, as it had been rumoured at the time that the lightship had been cut in half by Olympic.

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