Sinking History
Sunk by two USS Essex aircraft that scored 1,000 lbs bomb hits on the ship on February 16, 1944.

Shipwreck
Located in 1978 and 1980 during fathometer searches, it is one of the deepest wrecks and very rarely dived. She carries large 6" deck gun above the forecastle. Its 15' barrel points downward. Below the gun is stored ammunition. Internal explosions blew debris through the deck in this area, probably shells exploding. The ship's name is clearly visible on the side of the bow. Large degaussing wires are around the hull to repel magnetic mines.

The No.1 hold contains artillery shells and debris. Large guns are in the second hold while winches and cargo equipment above. The galley contains china and in the bridge are "D" shaped portholes some with their glass still intact. Rear hold have only beer bottles, fuel drums and crew quarters. Another 6 inch gun is aft as well as her two large propellers. In the holds are guns, coal and beer bottles. Rio De Janeiro Maru was attacked during the day by a variety of planes on February 16th and sunk overnight.

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Last Updated
October 1, 2009

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