Monitor National Marine Sanctuary was designated as the nation's first national marine sanctuary. It protects the wreck of the famed Civil War ironclad USS Monitor, and the sanctuary works with partners to honor and interpret it for the American people. Although the wreckage is not easily accessible, visitors can still enjoy this historical site by diving below the surface (must have a permit) or interacting with exhibits related to this time in history.

A diver explores Monitor National Marine Sanctuary

Monitor National Marine Sanctuary

A full-sized replica of the USS Monitor can be seen at the The Mariners' Museum, the official visitor center for Monitor NMS, in Newport News, Virginia.

The Monitor's turret breaks the surface of the water for the first time in 140 years.

NOAA diver on the wreck site of the USS Monitor

Historic image of the USS Monitor crew taken July 9, 1862, while the ship was docked on the James River in Virginia. The Monitor, a Civil War ironclad, is famous for fighting the CSS Virginia in the Battle of Hampton Road and for changing naval warfare forever.

The remains of two Monitor sailors found inside the turret in 2002 were buried at Arlington National Cemetery on March 8, 2013.

In 2002, U.S. Navy divers prepared the turret for lift. As the turret was excavated, the remains of two sailors were found inside.

Fort Monroe National Monument

Plum Tree Island National Wildlife Refuge

Yorktown Battlefield Part of Colonial National Historical Park

Colonial National Historical Park

Chippokes State Park

Historic Jamestowne Part of Colonial National Historical Park

Machicomoco State Park