Bonanza
W-S - 120 Ft
This wreck got its name from the first few divers to get there, who struck it rich in lobsters in its wooden ribs and decking. The wreckage is very well spread out in several lines or walls, with decking off to one side. Near the bow, an overturned piece of decking is home to ling and blackfish. Off to the side lie the winch and small bits of machinery.
Availability: Contact us for booking information
Finding the Bonanza. In the early 70's the dive boat Sea Lion made a long run south offshore of Barnegat Light searching for new wrecks. It was a fruitious venture. Due to the plentiful number of lobster captured on that first discovery trip, Captain George Hoffman nicknamed one of his finds, a large broken up wooden scow, the "Bonanza".
It became one of his favorite haunts until a small fishing boat passing by made note of the Sea Lion anchored over the secret site. The fisherman passed the location on to Captain Ray Ettel of the White Star II out of Barnegat Light. Ironically, Ettel took a group chartered by the Dive Shop of NJ out to his newly acquired wreck the same day that Hoffman made another long trek there. The White Star II was already anchored on the site as the Sea Lion steamed
up to what Captain George thought was his own private hunting ground. Hoffman’s temper erupted. He radioed Ettel scornfully questioning his being there. George and Ray were friends, but Hoffman was put out discovering the White Star II brazenly moored over his precious site. As the conversation continued, Hoffman’s temperature began to drop as he licked his wounds. George finally asked Ray what he called the wreck? The sharp witted captain tactfully replied. “ I call it George’s Secret Wreck”.
The radio deadened...
