SS Copenhagen (1898) 🇺🇸

If you are exploring the waters off Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, Florida, you can visit the historic shipwreck of the SS Copenhagen. Built in Sunderland, England, in 1898, this 325-foot cargo steamship carried sail-rigged masts alongside a triple-expansion engine. On May 26, 1900, while transporting nearly 5,000 tons of coal from Philadelphia to Havana under Captain William Jones, she grounded on Pompano Dropoff reef south of Hillsboro Inlet.

Despite salvage efforts using local labor to unload coal, the ship remained stuck on the reef, permanently ending her journey. Today, the SS Copenhagen rests underwater at depths ranging from 23 to 39 feet, making it a fascinating historic site to explore. As you navigate the wreck, you can look for the official plaque positioned at the south end, marking its designation as a Florida Underwater Archaeological Preserve since June 1994.

The site also carries military history; during World War II, United States Navy fighter aircraft used the stranded wreck for target practice, leaving behind spent .50 caliber bullets that can still be found at the site today. Listed on the US National Register of Historic Places, it offers you a memorable window into maritime and wartime history beneath the ocean surface.

What to see at SS Copenhagen (1898)

• 1898 English-built steamship resting off Lauderdale-by-the-Sea
• Submerged at depths between 23 and 39 feet on Pompano Dropoff
• Official preserve plaque located at the south end of the wreck
• Spent .50 caliber bullets remaining from WWII Navy target practice
• Listed on the US National Register of Historic Places

Visiting tips

Head toward the south end of the wreck to view the commemorative plaque marking its status as a Florida Underwater Archaeological Preserve.

How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Daytime

How to get there & what’s nearby

SS Copenhagen (1898) is easy to reach on Fort Lauderdale’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Coral Ridge Presbyterian Church. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Fort Lauderdale travel guide.