SHORE DIVE REPORT: NIAGARA Barge

IDENTIFICATION & SITE INFORMATION

• Name: Niagara Barge

• Type: Barge

• Location: Niagara River

• Coordinates: N 42° 57.033′, W 078° 58.060′

• Depth: 20 feet (6 meters)

• Access: Shore entry downstream from the Barge location

SITE DESCRIPTION

The Niagara Barge is a submerged wreck in the Niagara River that provides an excellent habitat for bass and other local aquatic species. Its proximity to shore and relatively shallow depth make it an accessible site for snorkelers and divers, though the current adds a layer of challenge.

DIVE SITE DETAILS

Highlights:

1. Aquatic Habitat:

• The wreck attracts a variety of fish, including bass, making it an excellent spot for observation and photography.

2. Shallow Depth:

• With a maximum depth of 20 feet (6 meters), the site is suitable for beginner to intermediate divers.

Challenges:

• Strong Current:

• The Niagara River’s current makes navigating to and from the Barge difficult without careful planning.

• Locating the Wreck:

• The Barge is not marked, and snorkeling is required to locate and buoy the site before diving.

Entry and Approach:

• Step 1: Snorkel the area to identify the Barge and mark it with a buoy.

• Step 2: Gear up on shore, approximately 300 feet (90 meters) from the site.

• Step 3: Walk to the designated “drop-off” point and surface swim to the buoy.

• Step 4: Descend and begin the dive at the marked location.

DIVE NOTES

• Visibility:

• River conditions can vary; Visibility may be reduced due to sediment or upstream activity.

• Safety Tips:

• Always use a dive flag to alert boaters to your presence.

• Be prepared for strong currents; use appropriate equipment and buddy techniques.

• Recommended Equipment:

• Weight belt to counteract buoyancy in the river’s current.

• A reel or guideline for easier navigation back to the entry point.

CONCLUSION

The Niagara Barge offers a unique dive experience in the Niagara River, combining an accessible location with the excitement of exploring a submerged Barge. While the strong current requires careful planning, the site’s rich aquatic life and manageable depth make it a rewarding adventure for divers and snorkelers alike.

KEYWORDS

#NiagaraRiver #NiagaraBarge #WreckDiving #ShoreDive #BassHabitat #Snorkeling #ScubaDiving