IDENTIFICATION & SITE INFORMATION #
VESSEL TYPE DESCRIPTION #
The wreck is unidentified, but its dimensions—approximately 20 meters (65.6 feet) in length and 5 meters (16.4 feet) in width—suggest that it may have been a small to medium-sized vessel. The specific type of vessel remains unknown, but its size could indicate that it was a small cargo ship, a large fishing boat, or a similar type of craft used on the Great Lakes. The wreck’s uncharted status adds to the mystery surrounding its origin and purpose.
HISTORY #
The unidentified wreck was recently discovered through advanced sonar technologies, including Multibeam Sonar Systems (MBES) and Sidescan Sonar (SSS) data from Klein 3000, which provided detailed imagery of the submerged structure. The wreck lies at a depth of 31 feet, making it a potential hazard for surface navigation, particularly for vessels with a deeper draft.
The wreck is not listed on previous charts, and there is no known historical record directly linking to this site, which complicates efforts to identify the vessel. Its uncharted status and the lack of identifying features make it an enigmatic presence in Lake Huron. The wreck’s location and depth suggest it has been submerged for some time, and it may have been missed in earlier surveys due to its relatively small size or the limitations of past sonar technology.
FINAL DISPOSITION #
The wreck lies submerged at a depth of 31 feet in Lake Huron. Given its dimensions, the vessel appears to be relatively intact, though its condition has not been fully assessed. The use of MBES and SSS technologies has confirmed its presence and provided accurate positioning data, but the identity and history of the wreck remain unknown. Further surveys and diver investigations are necessary to assess the wreck’s condition, identify the vessel, and understand the potential risks it poses to navigation.
LOCATED BY & DATE #
The wreck was identified through recent surveys utilizing Multibeam Sonar Systems (MBES) and Sidescan Sonar (SSS) data from Klein 3000. These advanced sonar techniques have provided high-quality imagery and positioning data, confirming the wreck’s presence at Latitude 45°01’00.89″N and Longitude 83°16’26.84″W. The wreck’s uncharted status necessitates additional investigation to ensure maritime safety.
NOTMARs & ADVISORIES #
Mariners should consult current Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) for advisories related to this wreck. The wreck’s relatively shallow depth and its uncharted status make it a significant hazard to navigation, and vessels operating in the area should exercise caution. Further surveys and updates to nautical charts are recommended to accurately reflect the wreck’s position and potential risks.
RESOURCES & LINKS #
- Maritime History of the Great Lakes Database: Maritime History of the Great Lakes
- David Swayze Shipwreck File: David Swayze Shipwreck File
- Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary: Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary
- NOAA AWOIS Database: NOAA AWOIS Database
CONCLUSION #
The unidentified wreck in Lake Huron represents a potential hazard to navigation due to its uncharted status and shallow depth. Discovered through advanced sonar technologies, the wreck’s origin, identity, and condition remain unknown, necessitating further investigation. The wreck’s dimensions suggest it was a small to medium-sized vessel, but without more information, its story remains a mystery. Ensuring maritime safety in the area will require additional surveys and updates to navigational charts.
KEYWORDS #
- Unidentified shipwreck
- Lake Huron wreck
- Submerged wreck
- Great Lakes maritime history
- Navigation hazard
- Sonar survey
GPS COORDINATES & ADDITIONAL INFO #
The wreck is located at Latitude 45°01’00.89″N, Longitude 83°16’26.84″W, submerged at a depth of 31 feet in Lake Huron. Mariners and divers should exercise caution when navigating or exploring this area and refer to the latest survey data and NOTMARs for safe passage and accurate positioning.
