Identification & Site Information
• Name: Hanlan’s Point Wreck (Unofficial)
• Former Names: Unknown – likely derelict barge or utility vessel
• Date Built: Unknown (est. late 19th–early 20th century)
• Date Scuttled: Unknown, used historically for shoreline stabilization
• Location: Near Hanlan’s Point, Toronto Islands, Lake Ontario
• Coordinates: 43.6166, -79.3948 (View on Google Maps)
• Depth: 5 metres (16.4 feet)
• Access: Shore dive or kayak/SUP launch from Toronto Island beach areas
Dive Type
Shallow Water Shore Dive / Historical Wreck Fragment
Description
This submerged structure near Hanlan’s Point is the remains of a wood and iron vessel, likely an old barge or utility boat that was intentionally scuttled as part of shoreline stabilization efforts. This practice was common during harbour development in the late 1800s and early 1900s around Toronto’s waterfront.
The wreckage lies in approximately 5 metres (16 feet) of water and is partially buried in shallow sediment. Side-scan sonar and diver reports indicate fragments of wood framing and iron hardware still intact. Visibility is moderate, but can be reduced by silt build-up, especially after storms or increased ferry traffic.
It is not charted as a navigation hazard, but remains a notable underwater feature for snorkelers and beginner divers.
Final Disposition
Deliberately scuttled, remains in place as a submerged structural element. No known salvage.
Located By & Date Found
Observed in sonar surveys and local diver reports. Visible on sonar imaging scans of Toronto Harbour floor.
Site Condition
• Visibility: Moderate (1–4 metres), influenced by silt and surface activity
• Water Entry: Accessible by small craft or swim-in from island beach areas
• Hazards: Sharp, corroded metal and submerged wooden beams; shallow sediment may conceal obstructions
• Currents: Occasional light current from ferry channel or lake surge
NOTMARs & Advisories
• Not marked on Canadian Hydrographic Service charts
• Divers should stay clear of main ferry routes and display proper surface buoys
Resources & Links
• Google Maps – Approximate Site Location
• City of Toronto – Hanlan’s Point Info
• Local dive community reports (e.g. Ontario Freshwater Dive Logs)
Keywords, Categories, and Glossary
• Keywords: Hanlan’s Point Wreck, Toronto Island dive, shoreline stabilization wreck, Lake Ontario shipwreck fragment
• Categories: Urban Shore Dive, Scuttled Vessels, Beginner Dive Sites, Toronto Maritime History
• Glossary:
• Scuttled: Intentionally sunk, often for breakwater, artificial reef, or shoreline reinforcement
• Sonar Scan: Imaging method used to detect submerged structures via sound wave reflections
Would you like sonar imagery or seasonal diving suggestions for this location?
43.6166 -79.3948 5 metres (16.4 feet) 5.0 5.0 16.4 16.4 Shore dive or kayak/SUP launch from Toronto Island beach areas Urban Shore Dive, Scuttled Vessels, Beginner Dive Sites, Toronto Maritime History, Hanlan’s Point Wreck, Toronto Island dive, shoreline stabilization wreck, Lake Ontario shipwreck fragment