IDENTIFICATION & SITE INFORMATION #
VESSEL TYPE DESCRIPTION: #
The Unidentified Hull, commonly referred to as the “Bottle Wreck,” is a shipwreck located near Cedar Island in the St. Lawrence River, close to Kingston, Ontario. The exact type and origin of the vessel remain unknown, but it has gained its nickname due to the large number of bottles scattered around the site, which are believed to have been part of the ship’s cargo or possibly dumped overboard during its operational years.
HISTORY: #
The history of this wreck is shrouded in mystery. The vessel’s identity, purpose, and the circumstances leading to its sinking are not well documented. The wreck’s nickname, “Bottle Wreck,” suggests that it was either transporting bottles when it sank or that the site has accumulated bottles over time, possibly from the era when the ship was in use or from subsequent years.
FINAL DISPOSITION: #
The Unidentified Hull lies submerged near Cedar Island, a popular area for diving and maritime exploration in the Kingston region. The site is a point of interest due to the large number of bottles and other debris that divers can find scattered around the wreck. These artifacts provide a glimpse into the past, though the exact details of the ship’s history remain elusive.
NOTMARs & ADVISORIES: #
There are no specific Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) related to this wreck. However, as with all wreck sites, divers should be aware of potential hazards such as sharp objects, entanglement risks, and the stability of the remaining structure.
LOCATED BY & DATE: #
The Bottle Wreck has likely been known to local divers for some time, as the site is located in a well-traveled area near Kingston. The exact date of discovery is not well documented, and the wreck remains a subject of ongoing interest for both amateur and professional divers.
CURRENT CONDITION & ACCESSIBILITY: #
The wreck is accessible to recreational divers and is located in a popular diving area near Cedar Island. The site is known for its relatively shallow depth, making it suitable for divers of various skill levels. The bottles scattered around the wreck are the main attraction, and while the hull itself may be deteriorated, the site offers an intriguing exploration experience.
RESOURCES & LINKS: #
- Maritime History of the Great Lakes Website: Provides historical context and information on shipwrecks in the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence River.
- Save Ontario Shipwrecks: An organization that may offer more detailed information on the wreck and its preservation.
- Local Diving Clubs: These groups may provide guided dives and additional details about the Bottle Wreck.
PHOTOS: #
Photographs of the wreck, especially those highlighting the bottles and other artifacts, may be available from local divers or through diving forums and websites dedicated to shipwreck exploration.
KEYWORDS: #
Bottle Wreck, Unidentified Hull, Cedar Island wreck, St. Lawrence River shipwreck, Kingston Ontario diving, underwater archaeology, shipwreck diving, Great Lakes maritime history.