Etheridge Wreck

From ferry to film to reef

The Etheridge spent years hauling vehicles and passengers along the Carolina coast before catching the attention of Hollywood producers. Her utilitarian appearance suited the atmospheric requirements of the Halloween franchise, and she appeared on screen before heading south to the Bahamas.

In early 1992, the vessel was scuttled near Peterson Cay National Park to create an artificial reef. The controlled sinking placed her on a sandy bottom among natural coral formations, creating excellent habitat connectivity with the surrounding ecosystem.

Marine life encounters

Hawksbill and green sea turtles have become regular visitors to the Etheridge, drawn by the sponge growth covering her decaying superstructure. Patient divers frequently observe turtles resting on the wreck or feeding on encrusting organisms, creating memorable wildlife encounters.

Schools of silversides gather in enormous numbers during summer and fall, creating underwater spectacles as thousands of tiny fish move in coordinated clouds. Predators including snappers, groupers, and barracuda follow the silversides, leading to dramatic hunting action.

Wreck exploration

The Etheridge's car ferry design created large open spaces that now provide easy exploration for divers of various experience levels. The vehicle deck offers substantial room to manoeuvre, while the superstructure provides more structured passage routes. Coral heads have grown up around the hull, integrating the wreck into the reef.

Schoolmaster snappers and grunts shelter throughout the structure, while lobsters tuck into the darker recesses. The wreck's position near Peterson Cay means protected reef habitat extends in all directions, allowing divers to combine wreck and reef diving on extended excursions.

Getting there

The Etheridge wreck lies off Grand Bahama's south shore near Peterson Cay National Park, accessible via dive boat from Freeport operators in approximately 25 minutes. The protected park waters nearby enhance marine life at the site. Most operators combine the Etheridge with reef dives or other wrecks for two-tank excursions. The site offers good protection from northerly weather due to its south shore location.

Frequently asked questions

Which Halloween movie featured the Etheridge?

The Etheridge appeared in one of the Halloween horror film series productions before being scuttled in the Bahamas in 1992. The vessel's atmospheric appearance suited the film's requirements.

When is the best time to see silversides at the Etheridge?

Silverside schools are most impressive during summer and fall months, typically from June through October. During peak season, massive clouds of these small fish can completely engulf the wreck structure.

Can you see turtles at this wreck?

Yes, hawksbill and green sea turtles are regular visitors to the Etheridge, attracted by the sponge growth on the structure. Sightings are common but not guaranteed on every dive.