Alexandria Bay

### **Category: Alexandria Bay, New York** #### **Overview** **Alexandria Bay, New York**, is a scenic village located in the **Thousand Islands** region of the **St. Lawrence River**, near the U.S.-Canada border. It is a popular destination for **boating, diving, fishing, and tourism**, known for its rich maritime history and proximity to **Boldt Castle**, one of the most famous landmarks in the region. #### **Geography & Location** - Situated in **Jefferson County, New York**. - Lies along the **St. Lawrence Seaway**, connecting the Great Lakes to the Atlantic Ocean. - Close to the **Thousand Islands Bridge**, providing easy access to Ontario, Canada. #### **Maritime & Shipping History** - Historically a hub for **commercial shipping and recreational boating** due to its strategic location on the St. Lawrence River. - The **St. Lawrence Seaway** brings large freighters ("salties" and "lakers") through the area. - Numerous **shipwrecks** and submerged structures make it a sought-after spot for **scuba diving**. #### **Diving & Shipwrecks** - The **clear waters** and **historic wrecks** make Alexandria Bay a premier dive destination in the **Thousand Islands**. - Some well-known **shipwrecks** in the area include: - **Islander** – A steamer that burned and sank in 1909, now a popular dive site. - **America** – A wooden steamer that sank near Singer Castle. - **A.E. Vickery** – A schooner that sank in 1889, now one of the most dived wrecks in the region. - Underwater visibility varies but can be excellent in the right conditions. #### **Tourism & Attractions** - **Boldt Castle** – A grand, unfinished mansion on Heart Island, built by millionaire George C. Boldt. - **Singer Castle** – Another historic castle on Dark Island, originally built for Frederick Bourne of the Singer Sewing Machine Company. - **Scenic Boat Tours** – Cruises explore the **Thousand Islands**, offering stunning views of island mansions, lighthouses, and shipwrecks. - **Fishing & Water Sports** – Alexandria Bay is a top destination for **bass, pike, and muskie fishing**, as well as **kayaking and sailing**. - **Pirate Days Festival** – A fun annual event featuring boat parades, mock pirate invasions, and family-friendly activities. #### **Significance in the St. Lawrence Seaway** - Alexandria Bay plays a role in the **Great Lakes-St. Lawrence shipping route**, with large vessels regularly passing through. - The area's history reflects the **growth of maritime trade, tourism, and cross-border connections between the U.S. and Canada**. ### **Why It Matters** Alexandria Bay is more than just a tourist destination—it's a **gateway to the Thousand Islands**, rich with maritime heritage, **historic shipwrecks**, and scenic beauty. Whether you're a diver, history buff, or simply a lover of the water, this charming village remains one of the most iconic locations along the **St. Lawrence River**.