Identification & Site Information

• Name: Alexandria Bay Skiff (Potential connection to “Giggles”)
• Type: St. Lawrence Skiff (or parts of a similar small craft)
• Cargo: None documented
• Final Location: Under the Seaway Channel, American Narrows, near Alexandria Bay
• Depth: Requires technical diving due to significant depth
• Known Since: 2016
• Current Conditions: Strong currents, limited Visibility, and potentially hazardous diving environment.
• Significance: Possible remnants of a St. Lawrence Skiff or the craft “Giggles,” destroyed by dynamite to recover trapped bodies.

Vessel Type Description

The St. Lawrence Skiff, a popular craft in the Thousand Islands region, was commonly used for leisure, fishing, and light transport. Built for speed and manoeuvrability, these wooden boats were small yet versatile, well-suited for the region’s waterways. The wreck may also include remnants of another small craft, potentially the “Giggles,” tied to a tragic incident.

History

Alexandria Bay and Maritime Significance

Alexandria Bay, located in the American Narrows of the St. Lawrence River, is a site of rich maritime activity. The region’s treacherous currents and navigation channels have claimed numerous vessels over time, contributing to its history as a hotspot for shipwrecks.

The Story of the “Giggles”

The “Giggles,” a small vessel, met a grim end when it sank under tragic circumstances. In an effort to recover bodies trapped in the wreckage, 2,000 sticks of dynamite were used to demolish the boat. The operation was extreme but underscores the desperation of the situation. Debris from this event may have mingled with other small craft remains in the area, creating the wreckage now referred to as the Alexandria Bay Skiff.

Discovery

The wreck site was formally documented in 2016. It has since drawn the attention of technical divers due to its challenging location under the Seaway Channel and its historical significance.

Final Disposition

• Wreck Status: Fragmented remains of a small craft, possibly a St. Lawrence Skiff or parts of the “Giggles.”

• Environmental Factors: The strong currents of the American Narrows make exploration hazardous, requiring advanced diving certifications.

• Preservation: No extensive preservation measures are in place due to the fragmented nature of the site.

Diving Advisories

• Depth: The site lies at technical diving depth, necessitating specialized equipment and training.

• Currents: Strong currents in the Seaway Channel present significant risks.

• Visibility: Conditions may vary, often challenging due to silt and sediment flow.

Significance

The Alexandria Bay Skiff is a poignant reminder of the dangers of the St. Lawrence River and the dramatic measures sometimes taken in response to maritime tragedies. Its connection to the “Giggles” highlights the human cost of such incidents and the resilience of local communities in the face of disaster.

Resources & Links

• Maritime History of the Great Lakes
• St. Lawrence River Historical Archives
• 3DShipwrecks – Skiff

3D Model – Skiff

Skiff by 3DShipwrecks on Sketchfab

Conclusion

The wreckage at Alexandria Bay embodies both the historical richness and inherent risks of navigating the St. Lawrence River. Its blend of local lore, technical diving challenge, and historical significance make it a compelling site for study and exploration.

Keywords & Tags

• #AlexandriaBaySkiff

• #StLawrenceRiver

• #TechnicalDiving

• #Shipwrecks

• #AmericanNarrows

• #MaritimeTragedy