North of Main Duck

### **Category: Waters North of the Duck Islands, Lake Ontario** #### **Overview** The **waters north of the Duck Islands** in **Lake Ontario** are known for their **treacherous navigation, historic shipwrecks, and shifting weather conditions**. Located **south of Prince Edward County, Ontario**, this area has been a major **shipping corridor** for vessels traveling between **Kingston, Toronto, and the St. Lawrence Seaway**. Due to **hidden shoals, strong currents, and sudden storms**, the waters north of the Duck Islands have become a **graveyard for many ships** over the past two centuries. #### **Geography & Location** - Located in **Lake Ontario**, **south of Prince Edward County**, near **Point Petre** and **Timber Island**. - The **Duck Islands** consist of **False Duck Island, Swetman Island, and Timber Island**, along with several smaller islets. - This area lies along a **major Great Lakes shipping route**, historically used by **merchant vessels, military ships, and fishing boats**. #### **Maritime & Shipwreck History** - **Historic Trade & Military Activity**: - These waters were **strategically important during the War of 1812**, with British and American naval forces patrolling the area. - 19th-century **timber and grain trade** routes passed through this region, increasing ship traffic. - **Shipwrecks & Maritime Disasters**: - The combination of **hidden shoals, shallow reefs, and unpredictable weather** led to multiple **shipwrecks and groundings**. - Some **notable wrecks** in this area include: - **The City of Sheboygan (1915)** – A wooden schooner - The Katie Eccles (1922)** – A schooner lost near Prince Edward County. - The Florence (1873) - Many **other wrecks remain undiscovered**, making this area a potential site for **maritime archaeology and diving exploration**. #### **Diving & Exploration** - **The waters around the Duck Islands** offer opportunities for advanced **wreck divers and historians**. - **Challenges for divers**: - **Strong currents** and **variable visibility** make this a **technical diving area**. - Many wrecks remain **unexplored or unidentified**, requiring **careful navigation**. - Some wreck sites are **too deep or dangerous for recreational divers**, making **ROV (Remotely Operated Vehicle) exploration** an option. #### **Tourism & Attractions** - **False Duck Island Lighthouse** – A **historic navigational aid**, guiding ships safely through the dangerous waters north of the Duck Islands. - **Prince Edward Point National Wildlife Area** – A **nearby protected area**, home to **migratory birds and diverse wildlife**. - **Fishing & Boating** – The region is popular for **sport fishing**, particularly for **walleye, bass, and salmon**. - **Sailing & Kayaking** – While beautiful, the waters here require **experienced navigation due to shifting shoals and open-water exposure**. #### **Environmental & Navigational Challenges** - **Shoals & Reefs**: Hidden underwater hazards have caused **numerous shipwrecks** over the centuries. - **Sudden Storms & High Winds**: Lake Ontario’s **weather is unpredictable**, and storms can form quickly. - **Cold Water Temperatures**: Even in summer, **water temperatures can remain dangerously low**, making survival difficult for wrecked sailors. ### **Why It Matters** The **waters north of the Duck Islands** have played a crucial role in **Lake Ontario’s maritime history**, serving as a **critical trade route, military patrol zone, and shipping hazard** for centuries. The **numerous shipwrecks, dangerous shoals, and challenging navigation** make this region an **important area for maritime research, shipwreck diving, and historical preservation**.