Wreck Report: Unnamed 23-Foot Sailboat

Identification & Site Information

•Name: Not specified

•Official Number: 02947

•Vessel Type: Sailboat

•Dimensions: Length: 23 feet (7 meters)

•Coordinates:

•Latitude: 42° 00’ 00” N

•Longitude: 80° 31’ 00” W

•Location: Lake Erie

•Depth: Not specified

•Lies: Not specified

Vessel Type Description

The wreck is a small 23-foot sailboat, commonly used for recreational purposes on inland and coastal waters. Such vessels are popular for day trips and short cruising due to their manageable size and simple handling. They are equipped with basic amenities and designed for personal use rather than commercial operations.

History

The sinking of the sailboat occurred around September 10, 1975, as noted in the Local Notice to Mariners (LNM) 72/75. Details of the incident were officially recorded on February 4, 1986, likely during updates to maritime records.

The exact cause of the sinking remains undocumented, but possibilities include:

•Adverse weather conditions: Sudden storms are common on Lake Erie.

•Equipment failure: Mechanical or structural issues could have played a role.

•Navigational errors: Small sailboats are particularly vulnerable to navigational challenges in large bodies of water.

Given the sailboat’s small size, it likely had minimal impact on navigation, explaining the absence of detailed surveys or recovery efforts.

Final Disposition

The sailboat lies at its final resting place in Lake Erie, approximately at 42° 00’ 00” N, 80° 31’ 00” W. The wreck’s depth and condition are not documented, but the small size of the vessel suggests it may pose little risk to other vessels in the area.

NOTMARs & Advisories

•No active Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) are associated with this wreck.

•The lack of survey requirements indicates that the wreck is not considered a significant navigation hazard.

Located By & Date

•The incident was recorded on February 4, 1986, based on references to the earlier LNM 72/75 dated September 10, 1975.

•The wreck’s exact location and condition have not been actively surveyed or monitored.

Current Condition & Accessibility

The wreck likely lies in shallow water, given the characteristics of Lake Erie and the vessel’s small size. Its current condition remains undocumented, and it is not actively monitored. The wreck is not identified as a point of interest for diving or research, likely due to its size and presumed lack of significant historical or environmental impact.

Resources & Links

•NOAA Nautical Charts: NOAA Nautical Charts

•Maritime History of the Great Lakes: Great Lakes Maritime History

Tags

#LakeErie

#SailboatWreck

#MaritimeIncident

#SmallCraft

#ShipwreckResearch

Conclusion

The sinking of the 23-foot sailboat in Lake Erie in 1975 reflects the inherent risks faced by even small recreational vessels on large and unpredictable waters. While the lack of specific details about the incident and the wreck’s current condition leaves many questions unanswered, the record serves as a reminder of the challenges of sailing on the Great Lakes. The wreck continues to rest on the lakebed, offering a minor but intriguing piece of maritime history for the region.