1970s Tri-Hull Pleasure Boat

The St. Lawrence River, renowned for its natural beauty and rich maritime history, has long been a destination for adventurers and historians alike. Beneath its serene surface lie countless relics from the past, each with its own story to tell. In September 2023, Daniel Gildea, a dedicated member of Shotline Diving (SLD), along with his friend Jay Paraino, made an unexpected discovery during one of their underwater explorations: an old Boston Whaler, potentially scuttled, resting at a depth of 92 feet.

The Discovery #

During an expedition aimed at locating a known wreck in the St. Lawrence River, Dan and Jay stumbled upon something entirely different. Lying on the riverbed between Rockport, Ontario, and Alexandria Bay, New York, was what appeared to be a tri-hull pleasure boat, distinctively painted in striking blue.

The condition of the boat immediately caught their attention. It was evident that the vessel had been deliberately scuttled, possibly to dispose of it in a manner that ensured it would not resurface. Items were loaded aboard, the gauges had been removed, and the boat bore visible signs of intentional damage. Despite this, remnants of its registration numbers were still discernible, offering tantalizing clues to its past.

The Vessel: Boston Whaler #

The tri-hull design, along with other structural details, suggested that the vessel was a Boston Whaler, a popular brand of recreational boats known for their durability and distinctive design. Boston Whalers from this era were celebrated for their unsinkable hulls, often marketed as boats that could stay afloat even when cut in half.

Key Features of the Vessel:

• Tri-hull Design: The tri-hull design of the boat is a notable characteristic, providing stability and making it a popular choice for leisure activities on rivers and lakes.
• Striking Blue Color: The vessel’s bright blue color remains prominent, even after years underwater.
• Scuttling Evidence: The intentional scuttling of the boat is evident from the removed gauges and other signs of deliberate damage.

3D Modeling and Documentation #

Recognizing the historical significance of the find, Daniel Gildea quickly documented the discovery. Using advanced techniques, he created a detailed 3D model of the Boston Whaler, capturing the vessel in its current state. This model serves not only as a digital preservation of the wreck but also as a tool for further study and public engagement.

The 3D model was shared on Sketchfab, allowing people worldwide to explore the wreck virtually and appreciate the details of this enigmatic find. The model provides a comprehensive view of the boat’s structure, its condition, and the surrounding environment on the riverbed.

• View the 3D Model: Unidentified Boston Whaler – Sketchfab

Historical Significance and Speculation #

The discovery of this Boston Whaler raises intriguing questions about its origins and the circumstances leading to its scuttling. While much remains unknown, the presence of registration numbers hints that further research could uncover more details about the boat’s history, its owner, and the events that led to its sinking.

The St. Lawrence River has a rich history of maritime activity, including smuggling, shipwrecks, and adventurous voyages. The Boston Whaler could be connected to any number of these activities, or it could simply be the result of a private owner’s decision to dispose of an old vessel. Whatever the case, the boat adds another layer to the already complex history of the river.

The Role of Shotline Diving and Community Engagement #

The discovery of the Boston Whaler highlights the importance of organizations like Shotline Diving (SLD) and the contributions of community members in preserving and exploring maritime history. Daniel Gildea’s efforts, combined with the support of the diving community, ensure that such finds are documented, studied, and shared with the public.

The swift documentation and release of the 3D model have sparked curiosity and discussion among divers, historians, and enthusiasts, all eager to piece together the story behind this sunken vessel. The discovery serves as a reminder that the St. Lawrence River, despite its well-charted waters, still holds many secrets waiting to be uncovered.

YouTube Video CC Dan Gildea 2023

References and Links #

• 3D Model by Daniel Gildea: Unidentified Boston Whaler – Sketchfab.
• St. Lawrence River Maritime History: General historical context and background on shipwrecks and maritime activities in the St. Lawrence River region.