Wreck Report: Unidentified Airboat (Ice Boat)

Identification & Site Information

• Name: Unidentified Airboat (commonly referred to as an Ice Boat)

• Coordinates: 44°22.701’N 75°54.875’W

• Depth: 99 feet (30.2 meters) of fresh water

• Location: St. Lawrence River, near Yeo Island, Rockport, Ontario

• Discovery Confirmation:

• Initial confirmation via side scan sonar on August 9, 2023, by Shotline Diving (SLD).

• Further confirmation on August 18, 2024.

Vessel Type Description

This airboat, often termed an ice boat when associated with winter operations, was designed for versatile navigation over both ice and water. Its flat-bothttps://shotlinediving.com/wp-content/uploads/52895851813_b64678c0f7_c.jpg Hull enabled gliding over icy or shallow water surfaces, while a large, Deck-mounted fan or propeller provided propulsion. Measuring 20.5 feet (6.2 meters) in length, the vessel’s compact design minimized drag, making it ideal for wintertime utility tasks such as search and rescue, transportation, and recreational use in icy regions.

History

The history of this airboat is largely speculative due to limited information. Airboats gained popularity in the early to mid-20th century for their ability to navigate challenging conditions. This particular vessel, found near Yeo Island in the St. Lawrence River, adds a unique narrative to the region’s maritime history.

Possible uses of airboats in the area include:

• Winter transportation across ice-covered waterways.

• Emergency and rescue operations during seasonal freeze-overs.

• Recreational excursions or local utility work.

The circumstances of its loss are unknown, but its preservation at nearly 100 feet of depth hints at an abrupt or unforeseen event leading to its submersion.

Final Disposition

The wreck of the airboat lies at 99 feet (30.2 meters), confirmed by sonar imaging. The side scan revealed a well-preserved flat-bothttps://shotlinediving.com/wp-content/uploads/52895851813_b64678c0f7_c.jpg Hull, characteristic of airboats. Cold, oxygen-poor conditions in the St. Lawrence River likely contributed to the vessel’s preservation.

Further research and exploration are needed to determine its history, construction details, and the conditions surrounding its sinking.

NOTMARs & Advisories

• Current Status: There are no active Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) specifically associated with this wreck.

• Divers exploring the site are advised to be cautious due to:

• Depth of 99 feet.

• Possible underwater currents typical of the St. Lawrence River.

Located By & Date

• Discovery Date: August 9, 2023

• Discovery Team: Shotline Diving (SLD), utilizing side scan sonar technology.

Current Condition & Accessibility

The wreck is accessible to experienced divers, with Visibility and safety conditions dependent on local water currents. Due to its relatively shallow depth for technical divers and preserved state, the site is an intriguing opportunity for underwater exploration. Further detailed examination could provide insights into the vessel’s construction and historical use.

Resources & Links

• Thousand Islands Life – Shipwrecks Database: Information on regional wrecks and their historical context.

• Great Lakes Shipwrecks Database: Archival data on submerged vessels in the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence River system.

• Maritime History of the Great Lakes: Resource for understanding historical maritime operations in the region.

Conclusion

The discovery of the airboat wreck near Yeo Island enriches the maritime history of the St. Lawrence River. Though much of its story remains a mystery, its unique design and purpose reflect a fascinating chapter of innovation in transportation and utility. Further exploration and research may uncover more about its construction, operational use, and the events leading to its sinking.

Keywords

Airboat, ice boat, St. Lawrence River, Yeo Island, Rockport Ontario, shipwreck, Great Lakes history, side scan sonar, diving site, maritime history, freshwater wreck, Shotline Diving, maritime discovery.