IDENTIFICATION & SITE INFORMATION
SITE DESCRIPTION
This wreck, referred to as the “Mine Hull,” is a large, mostly flattened hull located near the Kingston Yacht Club in Lake Ontario. The wreck is easily accessible from shore, making it a popular site for divers using scooters (DPVs) to explore the area. The power line that runs from the shore to Wolfe Island is a notable landmark for divers heading to the site.
HISTORY
The origins and history of the “Mine Hull” remain largely unknown, contributing to the site’s mystery and intrigue. The name “Mine” might suggest a past association with mining operations or perhaps a misidentification or local nomenclature. The hull’s current flattened state indicates that it has been underwater for a significant period, likely subjected to the pressures of time, weather, and possibly past salvage efforts.
Given its proximity to the Kingston Yacht Club and its location along a route where a power line runs to Wolfe Island, the wreck may have been associated with industrial or transportation activities in the region. Ships and barges that were no longer in service were sometimes scuttled or abandoned in nearby waters, and the “Mine Hull” could be one such vessel.
FINAL DISPOSITION
The wreck lies near the Kingston Yacht Club and is largely flattened, making it a relatively low-profile dive site. Despite its flattened state, the size of the hull suggests that it was once a substantial vessel, possibly involved in cargo transport, industrial activities, or local shipping operations in Lake Ontario.
NOTMARs & ADVISORIES
There are no specific Notices to Mariners related to the Mine Hull wreck. Divers should be mindful of the nearby power line running to Wolfe Island and be cautious of any submerged debris or entanglement risks at the site.
LOCATED BY & DATE
The Mine Hull has been known to local divers and maritime enthusiasts for some time, though specific details about its discovery or initial exploration are not well-documented. The site’s accessibility from shore and proximity to the Kingston Yacht Club make it a popular dive destination.
CURRENT CONDITION & ACCESSIBILITY
The wreck is largely flattened, which suggests that much of the original structure has deteriorated or collapsed over time. The site is accessible via a scooter run from the shore near the Kingston Yacht Club, making it convenient for divers. The nearby power line to Wolfe Island serves as a useful reference point for locating the wreck.
RESOURCES & LINKS
- Maritime History of the Great Lakes – Mine Hull: Maritime History of the Great Lakes
- Wrecksite Database – Mine Hull: Wrecksite Database
- Kingston Dive Sites: Kingston Scuba Diving
- Great Lakes Shipwreck Research: Great Lakes Shipwreck Research
KEYWORDS
- Mine Hull, Kingston Yacht Club, Lake Ontario, Flattened Wreck, Scooter Access, Wolfe Island, Maritime History, Great Lakes.
ANALYSIS The Mine Hull near the Kingston Yacht Club is an intriguing dive site, offering a glimpse into the industrial or transportation history of Lake Ontario. The wreck’s flattened state and its accessible location make it a notable point of interest for divers in the area. While the exact history of the vessel remains unclear, its large size and proximity to significant landmarks suggest it was once a vessel of importance. Further exploration and research may reveal more about the origins and purpose of the Mine Hull, adding to our understanding of the region’s maritime heritage.
