Dive Site Report: Fiberglass Sailboat Wreck (Lourdes Camp, Skaneateles Lake)

Identification & Site Information

• Vessel Name: Unknown fiberglass sailboat
• Vessel Type: Sailboat (fiberglass Hull)
• Final Location: Off Lourdes Camp, Skaneateles Lake, New York
• Purpose: Intentionally sunk as part of a recreational dive site
• Depth: Varies depending on dive area, but likely within recreational dive limits (~40-80 feet).

Dive Site Description

The fiberglass sailboat Hull, intentionally scuttled near Lourdes Camp, is now a popular dive site in Skaneateles Lake. Over the years, the wreck has become a gathering place for divers exploring the lake’s history and aquatic life. The location features a combination of man-made structures and natural lakebed elements, creating a unique underwater environment.

Features of the Wreck

• The sailboat lies intact, with its Hull largely preserved, providing an excellent opportunity for divers to explore the structure.
• Bow Lines: Lines extending from the bow are heavily encrusted with invasive species, including Zebra Mussels (Dreissena polymorpha) and Quagga Mussels (Dreissena bugensis). These lines lead to other features at the dive site, such as submerged markers, artifacts, or natural formations.
• Mussels: The invasive mussels have colonized much of the wreck and surrounding area, creating a textured and unique underwater environment.

Significance of the Site

Recreational Diving  The site is a favorite among local divers due to its accessibility, clear waters, and intriguing features  It offers entry-level challenges for recreational divers and serves as a training ground for new divers learning to navigate wrecks and underwater structures.

Aquatic Life Invasive Zebra and Quagga Mussels dominate the wreck, providing a habitat for small fish and other aquatic organisms. The site gives divers a firsthand look at the environmental impacts of invasive species on Skaneateles Lake’s ecosystem.

Local Dive Community The intentional sinking of the sailboat reflects the strong diving community in the Finger Lakes region, which has enhanced underwater exploration opportunities for divers and conservationists.

Environmental and Historical Context

Invasive Species Impact

The Zebra and Quagga Mussels, originally introduced to the Great Lakes and spreading to inland waters, are highly invasive and pose a threat to the native ecosystem of Skaneateles Lake.

These mussels filter water, improving Visibility for divers but disrupting natural food webs by outcompeting native species for resources.

Lourdes Camp

Located on the shores of Skaneateles Lake, Lourdes Camp is a popular area known for recreation, summer camps, and waterfront activities. The dive site near the camp adds to its attractions, drawing divers from across the region.

Diving Notes

SafetyThe depth is suitable for recreational diving, but divers should be cautious of cold water temperatures and potential entanglements with the lines extending from the wreck  Visibility in Skaneateles Lake is generally good, though seasonal algae blooms or disturbances may reduce clarity.

Dive Features Navigation: The lines from the bow act as a guide to other underwater attractions nearby, creating a connected dive trail.

Photography: The mussel-covered Hull and lines offer interesting macro photography opportunities for divers capturing the interaction of man-made objects with invasive species.

Conservation and Advisory

Environmental Impact: Although intentionally sunk, the wreck reflects the broader issue of invasive mussel colonization, highlighting the need for vigilant boat cleaning practices and public education to prevent further spread.

Site Maintenance: Local dive groups or environmental organizations may periodically inspect and maintain the site to ensure it remains accessible and safe for divers.

Further Exploration and Resources

• Skaneateles Historical Society https://skaneateleshistoricalsociety.org May provide information on the site’s history and other diving spots on Skaneateles Lake.
• Local Dive Shops and Clubs Organizations like Syracuse Scuba or regional dive clubs often organize trips to the site and may provide additional details on its layout and features.
• Invasive Mussel Research
• Finger Lakes Institute: https://www.hws.edu/fli/  Offers resources on the impact of Zebra and Quagga Mussels in Skaneateles Lake.
• Lourdes Camp https://lourdescamp.com Information about nearby activities and facilities, making it a great base for divers.
• Maritime History Of Skaneateles Lake, NY – Dana James Carris
• Carris Photogrametry

Fiberglass Boat Hull – Skaneateles Lake, NY by Carris Photogrammetry on Sketchfab

Conclusion

The fiberglass sailboat wreck off Lourdes Camp has become a notable dive site in Skaneateles Lake, offering a blend of recreational challenge, environmental awareness, and underwater exploration. The mussel-encrusted lines and Hull provide a visual reminder of the lake’s ecological struggles while serving as an engaging feature for divers to explore. Its popularity reflects the local diving community’s commitment to enhancing underwater experiences in the Finger Lakes region.