Identification & Site Information

• Name: Emperor

• Former Names: None noted

• Official Number: 126654

• Date Built and Launched: 1911

• Builder: Collingwood Shipbuilding Co., Collingwood, Ontario, Canada

• Hull Number: 28

• Measurements:

• Length: 525 ft (160 m)

• Beam: 56 ft (17 m)

• Depth: 31 ft (9.4 m)

• Engine: Triple expansion engine, 2200 HP, Scotch boilers (15 ft 6 in × 12 ft)

• Date Lost: June 4, 1947

• Location: Near Canoe Rocks, Isle Royale, Lake Superior

• Bow: 48°12.003’N, 88°29.525’W (25 to 60 ft depth, 8–18 m)

• Stern: 48°12.018’N, 88°29.606’W (100 to 170 ft depth, 30–52 m)

Vessel Type

The Emperor was a bulk freighter, built to transport large quantities of bulk cargo such as iron ore, a vital commodity during its operational era.

Description

Constructed in 1911, the steel-hulled Emperor served as a significant cargo vessel for the Great Lakes. Initially owned by Inland Lines Ltd., it was later acquired by Canada Steamship Lines in 1913. The ship featured a robust triple-expansion engine and two Scotch boilers, enabling reliable and efficient service.

The vessel had a long and productive operational life, but tragedy struck on June 4, 1947, when it ran aground on Canoe Rocks near Isle Royale in Lake Superior. The incident occurred during a cargo run, and the Emperor sank rapidly, splitting between the bow and Stern.

The wreck of the Emperor offers a striking underwater scene, with the bow resting at shallow depths (25–60 feet), accessible to novice divers, while the Stern lies much deeper (100–170 feet), challenging experienced divers. The passage of time and the harsh conditions of Lake Superior have caused significant deterioration, especially in the shallower sections, such as the pilothouse. However, anchors, Deck equipment, and engine components remain visible, providing a fascinating exploration for divers.

Final Disposition

The Emperor’s wreck is a popular dive site, with its location close to Isle Royale National Park. The Stern and bow sections are separated by a short distance and provide varied diving experiences.

Located By & Date Found

The wreck’s location has been known since its sinking in 1947 due to its proximity to Canoe Rocks.

NOTMARs & Advisories

• Bow Section: Recommended for novice divers due to shallow depths.

• Stern Section: Best for advanced divers because of greater depths and potential hazards.

• Advisories: Seasonal weather and water temperature changes may affect Visibility and diving conditions.

Resources & Links

• Maritime History of the Great Lakes archives

• Isle Royale National Park dive site maps

• NOAA Lake Superior shipwreck database

Conclusion

The Emperor remains a significant historical and recreational site, symbolizing the industrial and navigational legacy of the Great Lakes. Its well-preserved artifacts and accessible depth ranges attract divers of varying skill levels, while its story highlights the challenges of maritime transportation in the region.