Identification & Site Information:

•Vessel Name: Amherst Islander (renamed TANTI in 1947)

•Type: Gas Screw

•Official Number: C154774

•Build Year & Location: 1929, Collingwood, Ontario

•Dimensions:

•Length: 67 feet (20.4 m)

•Beam: 20 feet (6.1 m)

•Depth: 6.2 feet (1.9 m)

•Location: Thompsons Bay, near Howe Island, Ontario

•Coordinates: 44.29911855, -76.2533231

•Depth: Not specified

Vessel Type Description:

The Amherst Islander was a Gas Screw vessel, equipped with a gasoline-powered engine, and built for efficiency and reliability. Its compact size and engine type made it ideal for short Ferry trips across Lake Ontario. The vessel was specifically used to transport passengers and goods between Amherst Island and the mainland, serving as a critical link in the region’s transportation network.

In 1947, after nearly two decades of service, the vessel was sold and renamed TANTI. Under its new ownership, it continued to operate in the same regional waters, further cementing its role in supporting local communities.

History & Final Disposition:

The Amherst Islander played an essential role in the economy and daily life of the Lake Ontario region during its operational years. Its final resting place in Thompsons Bay suggests it was likely decommissioned and Abandoned, although the specific circumstances of its sinking or abandonment remain unclear. The wreck offers a poignant reminder of the lifecycle of utility vessels from this era, many of which were left to decay after becoming obsolete.

Located By & Date:

The location of the wreck was identified through historical research and mapping efforts, though no specific date of its discovery is documented.

Current Condition & Accessibility:

The condition of the Amherst Islander wreck is largely unknown, but given its wooden Hull and age, significant deterioration is expected. The site remains accessible to divers and maritime historians, providing a unique opportunity to explore a piece of Lake Ontario’s maritime history.

NOTMARs & Advisories:

No specific Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) are in place for this wreck. Divers are advised to follow standard safety precautions, respect local regulations, and assess conditions before diving.

Resources & Links:

•Marine Museum of the Great Lakes

•Great Lakes Maritime History

•Historic Shipwrecks of Lake Ontario

•Shipwrecks of Ontario

Conclusion:

The Amherst Islander, later known as TANTI, highlights the significance of small utility vessels in the early 20th century, particularly in connecting Lake Ontario’s island communities. Its ultimate abandonment reflects the natural progression of such vessels, which often faced obsolescence with advancements in technology. Today, the wreck in Thompsons Bay offers a valuable site for exploration and study, preserving a vital chapter in Great Lakes maritime history.