DAUNTLESS

The steam yacht Dauntless, of unknown origin and build date, was a wooden vessel measuring 86 feet in length, 20 feet in beam, and with an unknown depth of hold. It was propelled by a propeller and categorized as a steam yacht. The builder’s name and specific details about tonnage and depth are not provided in the available information.

Unfortunately, the exact cause of the yacht’s loss is not specified, but it is noted that the Dauntless was salvaged and subsequently burned. This event occurred before 1970. The remains of the yacht are currently located between Washington Island (east of Clayton) and Round Island, submerged in approximately 50 feet of water.

Despite the damage, some remnants of the yacht can still be observed. The decking, hatches, scrollwork around the bow, and wide decking with bright white caulking are partially intact. Nearby, there is metalwork for a canvas canopy, as well as some large timbers.

In its history, the Dauntless was acquired by the Brown Boat Line in 1921, and it had the capacity to accommodate 100 passengers. It held the distinction of being the largest yacht on the river at the time and operated regular passenger schedules between Clayton and Alexandria Bay, New York. However, in the mid-1900s, the yacht was salvaged by a local shipbuilder in Clayton. During this salvage process, the engine and most of the metalwork were removed. Subsequently, the yacht was intentionally set on fire and allowed to drift downstream from Washington Island toward Round Island.