Dive Site Report: 1935 Hudson Terraplane – Minet Point, Milners Bay, Ontario

Location: Minet Point, Milners Bay, Lake Simcoe, Ontario

Depth: 25 feet (8 meters)

Access: Shore entry; parking available near the marked pin at Minet Point

Visibility: ~15 feet in shallows, improving at depth; cold water year-round

Directions from Toronto, Ontario

1. By Car:

• Start on ON-400 N and continue toward Barrie.

• Take the exit for Essa Road in Barrie and follow signs for Lakeshore Drive.

• Continue to Minet Point Road, which leads directly to the waterfront area.

• Parking is available at Minet Point Park or nearby roadside spaces. The dive site is a short walk from the parking area.

2. Site Entry:

• Enter the water from the shoreline near the designated parking area. The entry point is clearly marked, and a gradual slope leads into the bay.

Emergency Information

• Nearest Hospital:

Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre

• Address: 201 Georgian Dr, Barrie, ON L4M 6M2 (~15 minutes drive from Minet Point)

• Phone: +1 (705) 728-9802

• Emergency Numbers:

• 911 for all emergencies.

• Barrie Fire and Emergency Services: +1 (705) 728-3199

• 911 Location Details: Mention “Minet Point, Milners Bay, Lake Simcoe,” and provide the nearest street address (Minet Point Road).

Underwater Dive Guide

Site Entry

• Walk into the water from the shoreline. Minet Point’s gentle slope makes entry safe and accessible for all skill levels. Be aware of slippery rocks near the water’s edge.

Dive Plan

1. The Hudson Terraplane:

• Swim 100 feet to the right (north) from the entry point to locate the 1935 Hudson Terraplane.

• The car rests in 25 feet (8 meters) of water and is extremely fragile. Observe from a distance and resist the urge to touch or disturb it, as its condition is delicate and part of the site’s historical value. Capture its unique appearance with underwater photography, leaving it undisturbed for others to enjoy.

2. Exploring the Surroundings:

• Swim left (south) toward deeper areas of the bay. At around 40 feet (12 meters), you’ll find interesting rock formations and cavern-like overhangs. These structures are perfect for exploring aquatic life and offer excellent photo opportunities.

• Heading straight out (west) leads to deeper water, where Visibility improves, but it becomes darker. Bring an underwater light if exploring this area.

3. Bottles and Relics:

• The site is known for scattered old bottles near the rock formations. While these may be tempting, do not remove any items, as they are part of the natural and historical fabric of the bay.

Environmental Awareness & Conservation

• Leave Only Bubbles: Take nothing but photos and memories from this dive. Removing artifacts or natural items disrupts the site’s ecological and historical integrity.

• Hands Off: The Terraplane is fragile and irreplaceable; any contact risks damaging this underwater relic.

• Minimize Impact: Avoid stirring sediment, which reduces Visibility and impacts aquatic habitats. Practice neutral buoyancy throughout the dive.

Public Relations & Shore Etiquette

• Engage Onlookers: Minet Point is a popular spot, and others may be curious about your dive. Share the historical significance of the Hudson Terraplane and the importance of conservation to educate and inspire.

• Collect Trash: Bring a mesh bag to collect any litter you find underwater. Properly disposing of debris onshore demonstrates responsible diving practices.

• Share the Space: Be mindful of other park users. Change discreetly and keep your gear organized to avoid inconveniencing others. Respect the shared nature of the area, especially during peak times.

Dive Highlights

The Hudson Terraplane at Minet Point is a unique dive that combines history, natural beauty, and underwater exploration. The site offers accessible entry, manageable depths, and the chance to observe an artifact that has been preserved in its watery grave for decades. By diving responsibly and respecting the site, you contribute to its preservation and the positive image of the diving community.

Tags

#LakeSimcoe #MinetPoint #HudsonTerraplane #HistoricalDiving #ConservationDiving #LeaveOnlyBubbles #GreatLakesRegionDiving