IDENTIFICATION & SITE INFORMATION #
VESSEL TYPE DESCRIPTION: #
This vessel is a 1955 Cris Craft, a renowned brand of pleasure boats known for their elegant wooden construction and classic design. Cris Craft boats from this era were highly sought after for their craftsmanship, performance, and the luxurious boating experience they provided. Typically used for recreational purposes, these boats were often seen cruising the scenic waterways of the St. Lawrence River.
HISTORY: #
The history of this particular Cris Craft pleasure boat remains largely unknown. Cris Craft boats were a symbol of status and leisure during the mid-20th century, and it is likely that this vessel was used for recreational purposes by its owner. The exact circumstances leading to its sinking are unclear, but it is presumed that the vessel was being towed upstream at the time of its sinking based on the large tow rope hanging from the bow. It has become a point of interest for divers and underwater archaeologists.
FINAL DISPOSITION: #
This Cris Craft boat was discovered resting in 92 feet of water just outside Goose Bay in the St. Lawrence River. The cause of its sinking is unknown, but it may have been due to an accident, weather conditions, or structural failure. The boat remains relatively intact on the riverbed, offering a glimpse into the boating culture of the 1950s.
NOTMARs & ADVISORIES: #
There are no current Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) specifically related to this wreck. However, as with all wreck sites in navigable waters, mariners should be aware of potential underwater hazards and exercise caution in the vicinity.
LOCATED BY & DATE: #
The wreck was likely discovered by local divers or underwater archaeologists exploring the area. The specific date of discovery is not documented, but it has been recognized as an interesting dive site for those exploring the St. Lawrence River near Goose Bay.
CURRENT CONDITION & ACCESSIBILITY: #
The Wooden 1955 Cris Craft Pleasure Boat lies at a depth of 92 feet on a silty bottom, making it accessible to advanced recreational divers. The condition of the wreck is typical for wooden vessels submerged for several decades, with significant but recognizable remains. The site is suitable for those interested in vintage boats and the maritime history of the region. The vessel lies tilted to one side on the side of a slope that leads into deeper water next to buoy 181 and under the shipping channel. You can access the site but entering at the buoy and following the anchor line down to the bottom followed by a ~100′ swim North into the channel.
YouTube Video CC Dan Gildea 2024: #
RESOURCES & LINKS: #
- Antique Boat Museum, Clayton, NY: May have additional information or resources related to Cris Craft boats and similar historical vessels.
- St. Lawrence River Historical Foundation: Provides historical context and details about shipwrecks and other points of interest in the region.
- Local Dive Shops and Charters: May offer guided dives to this and other nearby wrecks, with more information available on site conditions and accessibility.
PHOTOS: #
No publicly available photographs of this wreck are known, but images may exist within local diving communities or museums dedicated to maritime history in the Thousand Islands region.
KEYWORDS: #
Wooden Cris Craft, 1955 boat wreck, Goose Bay diving, St. Lawrence River wrecks, pleasure boat shipwreck, maritime history, Alexandria Bay diving.
