Alligator Tug Wreck – Burnt Lake, Ontario, Canada

4 min read

Site Overview #

Location: Burnt Lake, Ontario, Canada
Coordinates: 45°49’59.40″N, 78°41’17.53″W

Historical Significance:
The wreck at Burnt Lake is believed to be that of an alligator tug, a specialized vessel used in marine construction and dredging operations in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Known for their distinctive low-slung hulls and rear-mounted paddlewheels, alligator tugs were essential in maintaining navigable waterways and constructing water-related infrastructure in Ontario’s lakes and rivers.

Dive Type: Shore Dive

Dive Site Features #

Entry Point:

Shoreline Access: The dive site is accessible from the shore of Burnt Lake. The entry point is likely near a cleared area or natural beach, providing easy access to the water. The calm, protected waters of Burnt Lake make it an ideal location for shore diving.
Gradual Entry: The shoreline provides a gentle slope into the water, making it easy for divers to enter and exit the lake.

Wreck Overview:

Alligator Tug Wreck: The wreck is identified as an alligator tug, characterized by its long, flat, and narrow hull. The tug’s rear-mounted paddlewheel, often referred to as the “jaws,” is a significant feature that may still be visible on the wreck.
Size and Structure: The wreck is expected to be around 50 to 60 feet (15 to 18 meters) in length, with a rectangular or box-shaped hull. The hull may be partially buried or deteriorated due to age and sediment, but key features such as the paddlewheel and dredging equipment could still be identifiable.

Lake Bottom:

Silty and Sandy Bottom: The lakebed around the wreck is likely composed of a mix of silt and sand, typical of Ontario’s inland lakes. Divers should be cautious not to disturb the sediment, as it can reduce visibility.
Vegetation: The area around the wreck may be home to aquatic plants, which could provide habitat for fish and other wildlife, making the dive site not only historically interesting but also ecologically rich.

Visibility #

Conditions:

Visibility: Visibility in Burnt Lake is generally good, often ranging from 10 to 25 feet, depending on recent weather and the level of silt disturbance. The lake’s calm waters usually result in clear conditions, especially during the summer.

Additional Tips #

Equipment:

Dive Light: A dive light is recommended for exploring the wreck, particularly to illuminate the interior spaces and detailed features such as the paddlewheel and dredging equipment.
Wetsuit: A wetsuit is advisable due to the cooler water temperatures typical of Ontario lakes, particularly during early spring and late fall.

Safety:

Buoyancy Control: Maintaining good buoyancy control is essential to avoid disturbing the sediment around the wreck, which can reduce visibility.
Dive with a Buddy: As with all wreck dives, it is recommended to dive with a buddy for safety, especially when exploring enclosed or partially collapsed sections of the wreck.

Points of Interest #

Wreck Exploration:

Paddlewheel: The most significant feature of the alligator tug is its rear-mounted paddlewheel, which may still be visible. This feature is a focal point of the dive, offering insight into the tug’s operation and design.
Hull Structure: The flat, narrow hull of the alligator tug is another key aspect to explore. Divers can examine the remnants of the hull, including any exposed internal structures or compartments.
Dredging Equipment: If any remains of the dredging equipment are present, they would provide additional interest and a deeper understanding of the vessel’s purpose and historical use.

Natural Environment:

Aquatic Life: The wreck site likely attracts various fish species and aquatic plants, making it a vibrant underwater habitat. This aspect adds to the dive’s appeal, offering opportunities for underwater photography and ecological observation.
Photography: The combination of historical wreckage and natural beauty makes Burnt Lake an excellent site for underwater photography, particularly with the unique features of the alligator tug.

RESOURCES & LINKS #

Google Maps Location: Burnt Lake, Ontario, Canada
Local Dive Shops: Contact nearby dive shops in towns or cities for information on equipment rentals, guided dives, and local conditions.
Ontario Historical Society: For more information on the history of alligator tugs and their significance in Ontario, reaching out to local historical societies or maritime museums could be beneficial.

CONCLUSION #

The wreck of the alligator tug in Burnt Lake offers a fascinating dive experience for those interested in both history and underwater exploration. This site provides a unique opportunity to explore a specialized vessel that played a significant role in Ontario’s marine construction and dredging history. The wreck’s distinctive features, combined with the clear waters and serene environment of Burnt Lake, make it an ideal destination for divers of all levels.