Shipwreck Report: Steamboat Comet (aka Mayflower)

IDENTIFICATION & SITE INFORMATION

• Vessel Name: Comet (often referred to as the Mayflower in historical accounts)
• Vessel Type: Steamship (Sidewheeler)
• Official Number: Not specified
• Year Built: 1848
• Builder: G. N. Ault, Fisher’s Yard, Portsmouth, Ontario
• Dimensions: Length: 174 feet (60 meters) Beam: 26 feet (44 feet over paddle boxes, 8 meters) Depth: 10 feet (3 meters)
• Location: Near Nine Mile Point, Simcoe Island, Lake Ontario
• GPS Coordinates: N 44°08.319’ W 76°35.077’
• Depth: 70 feet (20 meters)
• Moored: Yes

VESSEL TYPE DESCRIPTION

The Comet was a sidewheel Steamship, a prominent design on the Great Lakes during the mid-19th century. Sidewheelers were characterized by large paddle wheels on either side of the Hull, providing propulsion for passenger and freight operations. Known for their grace and utility, they were also prone to mechanical accidents due to early steam technology.

HISTORY

Construction and Early Service

The Comet was built in 1848 by G. N. Ault at Fisher’s Yard in Portsmouth, Ontario. Originally launched on June 14, 1848, the vessel had its trial trip in Hay Bay later that year. Operated initially by J. & L. Platt of Adolphustown, Ontario, the Comet quickly became a vital part of the passenger and freight trade on Lake Ontario.

Incidents and Rebuilds

The Comet’s career was fraught with misfortune:

• 1849: The first boiler explosion in Toronto caused two fatalities.
• 1851: A second catastrophic explosion in Oswego claimed eight lives.

• Despite these tragedies, the vessel underwent a significant Rebuild in 1861, expanding its dimensions and adding cabins and a promenade Deck.

Final Voyage

On May 14, 1861, the Comet collided with the Schooner Exchange near Nine Mile Point, Simcoe Island. The collision led to the vessel sinking to its final resting place on the lakebed. This marked the end of the Comet’s tumultuous service.

FINAL DISPOSITION

The Comet now lies at the bottom of Lake Ontario, near Nine Mile Point. The wreck, stretching 174 feet along the lakebed, remains a significant historical site for divers and maritime historians.

NOTMARs & ADVISORIES

There are no specific Notices to Mariners related to the wreck, but divers are advised to exercise caution due to:

• Possible entanglement hazards.

• Structural fragility, as the wreck has aged significantly.

LOCATED BY & DATE

The wreck has been documented by numerous explorers. Notable site mapping and 3D modeling have been completed by Shotline Diving and the team at 3DShipwrecks on Sketchfab.

CURRENT CONDITION & ACCESSIBILITY

The wreck is in remarkably good condition for its age:

• Depth: Lies at 70 feet, making it accessible to intermediate and advanced divers.

• Notable Features: The sidewheel structure and other elements of the vessel remain visible.

• Accessibility: A mooring line enhances safe diving operations.

RESOURCES & LINKS

• David Swayze’s Great Lakes Shipwreck File: Great Lakes Shipwreck File
• Maritime History of the Great Lakes Database: Maritime History of the Great Lakes
• 3DShipwrecks on Sketchfab: Explore the Comet in 3D
• Kingston Whig Standard Archives: Historical accounts and news reports.
• NY Times Archives, May 1851: Coverage of the second boiler explosion.

3D Model – Comet

Comet- Sidewheeler by 3DShipwrecks on Sketchfab

CONCLUSION

The Comet (aka Mayflower) is a notable chapter in Lake Ontario’s maritime history. From its construction in 1848 to its tragic sinking in 1861, the vessel reflects the evolution and challenges of early steam navigation. The Comet’s repeated misfortunes, including two deadly boiler explosions and its eventual collision, underscore the perils faced by early steam-powered vessels. Today, its well-preserved wreck offers divers a tangible connection to this fascinating era of maritime history.

KEYWORDS

#Comet #Mayflower #LakeOntario #Sidewheeler #NineMilePoint #SimcoeIsland #MaritimeHistory #BoilerExplosion #GreatLakesShipwrecks #UnderwaterExploration