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Maryland Historical Trust

Maryland Shipwreck Preserves: U-1105 & Mallows Bay

Partially submerged shipwreck with a wooden post, calm water, distant tree line, and blue sky with clouds.

The Maryland Historical Trust (MHT) surveys, documents and protects historic shipwrecks in Maryland waters and provides safe access for divers and site observers. This page covers the U-1105 Preserve and the Mallows Bay-Potomac River National Marine Sanctuary, explaining the rules and conditions, and how to visit these two shipwreck preserves. 

Why these preserves matter 

U-1105 and Mallows Bay are underwater time capsules that reveal stories of Maryland’s maritime history and naval warfare. Designated by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) as preserves, MHT helps these sites: 

  • Protect fragile cultural resources from damage or looting
  • Support controlled access for documentation, monitoring and underwater survey
  • Demonstrate how cultural and natural resources can be shared and enjoyed responsibly 

Visitors can explore these sites safely when they follow posted guidance and approved access methods. 

Mallows Bay-Potomac River National Marine Sanctuary 

A vibrant sunset photograph over Mallows Bay in Maryland, featuring the skeletal wooden remains of a sunken ship rising from the calm water.

Mallows Bay, located on the Potomac River in Southern Maryland, is home to one of the largest concentrations of historic shipwrecks in the Western Hemisphere. Many vessels date to World War I and earlier. MHT works in partnership with state agencies and local governments to document and monitor this unique maritime landscape. 

Visit conditions & access 

  • Paddling access: Mallows Bay is one of Maryland’s best-known kayaking destinations. Paddlers can explore partially submerged wooden ship hulls that rise above the water at low tide.
  • Launch sites: Public kayak launches and parking are available at Mallows Bay Park, managed by Charles County. The launch connects directly to a marked National Marine Sanctuary kayak trail, with interpretive signs along the route.
  • Plan for conditions: Check tides, weather and visibility before visiting. The site’s shallow water and shifting currents can expose or submerge parts of wrecks within hours.
  • For safety: Wear a life jacket, carry a whistle or signaling device, and avoid standing on or entering the wrecks.
  • For divers and snorkelers: Visibility changes quickly, so use caution and follow all posted regulations. 

MHT’s regulatory role 

  • MHT records shipwreck locations and maintains site documentation under Maryland heritage laws.
  • MHT works with NOAA and Charles County Government on ongoing management of Mallows Bay. 

U-1105 Shipwreck Preserve 

Several German U-boats docked in a harbor with the central sub features a large conning tower with crew members visible on deck.

The U-1105, a German Type VII-C submarine nicknamed “Black Panther,” was sunk in 1949 in the Potomac River near Piney Point, Maryland. It lies upright in more than 90 feet of water with about 65 feet over its conning tower.  

In 1995, U-1105 became the state’s first historic shipwreck preserve under a cooperative agreement between the Navy and Maryland.  

Visit & dive conditions 

  • Advanced dive only: deep water, near-zero visibility, strong currents.
  • No commercial charters operate to the site, so divers must plan their own clearance and logistics.
  • Safety guidelines apply; download the U-1105 diving safety guidelines - PDF 113.83 KB resource.
  • After each visit, divers should submit a Visitor Log to help MHT track site use and condition.  

MHT’s regulatory role 

  • MHT documents and monitors site condition, logs diver visits, and tracks any damage or vandalism.
  • Data collected helps us make policy decisions and protect the wreck from illegal salvage or degradation.
  • Divers are required to report any unusual observations (e.g., shifting wreckage, anchor damage) through the log form. 

Shared guidelines for both preserves 

  • Respect the site: Do not remove artifacts or disturb the wreckage. These are non-renewable heritage resources.
  • Check safety and conditions: Deep diving (U-1105) or shallow wreck access (Mallows Bay) both require proper training, equipment and current site-specific planning.
  • Follow any posted local rules: Access may require permits, notifications, or coordination with local marine agencies.