Monitor National Marine Sanctuary

Overview

Monitor National Marine Sanctuary is managed by National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and is located near Newport News, Virginia. 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.