Identification & Site Information

•Vessel Name: Unidentified Hull (Nicknamed Bottle Wreck)

•Type: Unidentified

•Location: Near Cedar Island, St. Lawrence River, Kingston, Ontario, Canada

•Coordinates: N 44°13.423’ W 76°27.579’

•Depth: 60 feet (20 meters)

Vessel Type Description

The Unidentified Hull, commonly known as the Bottle Wreck, is a mysterious shipwreck near Cedar Island in the St. Lawrence River. Its exact origin and purpose are unknown. The nickname derives from the significant number of bottles scattered across the site, believed to have been part of the ship’s cargo or deposited over the years.

History

The wreck’s history remains enigmatic. There are no clear records of the vessel’s identity, use, or sinking. The presence of numerous bottles at the site suggests the ship may have been carrying glass bottles as cargo or that the wreck site became a dumping ground for bottles, potentially from the period when the vessel was active or after it sank. The wreck and its artifacts provide a glimpse into a bygone era, sparking interest among divers and researchers.

Final Disposition

The Unidentified Hull lies submerged near Cedar Island in the St. Lawrence River. The site is a popular destination for divers, particularly due to the intriguing presence of bottles and other artifacts. The wreck’s condition is consistent with prolonged submersion, with a deteriorated structure surrounded by scattered debris, including the iconic bottles.

NOTMARs & Advisories

There are no specific Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) related to this wreck. Divers exploring the site should be mindful of potential hazards, such as:

•Sharp edges on the wreckage.

•Entanglement risks from fishing lines or debris.

•The stability of the remaining Hull structure.

Located By & Date

The wreck has been known to local divers for an extended period, given its proximity to Cedar Island—a well-traveled and popular diving area. The exact date of its discovery is not recorded, and it remains a subject of curiosity and ongoing exploration.

Current Condition & Accessibility

The Bottle Wreck is accessible to recreational divers and is situated in relatively shallow water, making it suitable for divers of varying experience levels. The key features of the site include:

•Hull Condition: Likely deteriorated and buried in part.

•Artifacts: The scattered bottles are the main point of interest, offering insight into the ship’s potential purpose or the era in which it operated.

Resources & Links

•Maritime History of the Great Lakes: Provides historical context for shipwrecks in the region.

•Save Ontario Shipwrecks: Focused on shipwreck preservation and documentation.

•Local Diving Clubs: These groups often provide guided dives and additional insights about the wreck.

Photos & Artifacts

Images of the Bottle Wreck, particularly the bottles and artifacts, may be available through local divers, underwater photographers, and diving forums. These visual resources offer a valuable way to engage with the site’s unique features.

Keywords

•Bottle Wreck

•Unidentified Hull

•Cedar Island Wreck

•St. Lawrence River Shipwreck

•Kingston Ontario Diving

•Great Lakes Maritime History

•Underwater Archaeology

•Shipwreck Diving

Analysis

The Bottle Wreck represents the allure of unknown shipwrecks and the stories they hold beneath the water’s surface. Its scattered bottles and mysterious identity make it a compelling site for divers and historians alike. As a shallow dive site, it provides accessibility while raising questions about the region’s maritime past. The wreck stands as a testament to the layered history of the St. Lawrence River and the hidden artifacts of the Great Lakes’ rich maritime legacy.