Site Identification & Information #
VESSEL TYPE DESCRIPTION
The wreck near Yeo Island is an unidentified pleasure craft, measuring approximately 20 feet (6.1 meters) in length. Its design is reminiscent of small recreational boats, which were commonly used in the mid-20th century on the St. Lawrence River. The absence of the outboard motor suggests it may have been removed either before or after the vessel was abandoned, or it could have been lost during the incident that led to the sinking. The vessel’s condition—featuring a crumpled windshield and remnants of seating—indicates it was once used for leisure activities, providing a mix of relaxation and adventure on the river.
HISTORY
The story of this wreck began with a tip-off from local mariner Jay Paraino in July 2023. He informed diver Dan Gildea about a potential shipwreck near Yeo Island. Intrigued by the lead, Gildea and his partner Tom Rutledge took on the mission to locate the wreck. Their persistence paid off when a side-scan sonar confirmed the presence of the vessel at a depth of 74 feet (22.5 meters), just off the shores of Yeo Island.
FINAL DISPOSITION
The wreck now lies undisturbed on the riverbed, serving as a silent sentinel beneath the river’s currents. The vessel’s purpose, journey, and eventual abandonment remain unknown, shrouded in mystery. The crumpled windshield, the missing motor, and the remaining structure suggest that this was once a vessel that provided joy and freedom on the open water, now resting quietly beneath the waves.
CURRENT CONDITION & ACCESSIBILITY
The site offers an intriguing dive for those interested in uncovering maritime mysteries. The clear waters of the St. Lawrence River provide good visibility, making the wreck accessible to divers with intermediate skills. The surrounding natural beauty of Yeo Island, combined with the serene environment of the river, enhances the allure of this dive site.
Gallery 2023 Daniel Gildea CC #
YouTube – 2023 Daniel Gildea CC #
RESOURCES & LINKS
- Shotline Diving (SLD): Organization involved in the discovery and documentation of the wreck.
- Maritime History of the Great Lakes: Provides background information on similar vessels and wrecks in the region.
- Great Lakes Shipwrecks Database: A valuable resource for divers and historians alike, cataloging shipwrecks across the Great Lakes and surrounding waterways.
CONCLUSION
The wreck near Yeo Island remains a captivating dive site, offering a blend of history, mystery, and underwater exploration. As more divers explore this site, it is hoped that further clues may be uncovered, revealing more about the vessel’s past and the circumstances of its final voyage.
KEYWORDS
Unidentified Pleasure Craft, Yeo Island, Rockport Ontario, St. Lawrence River, Shipwreck, Maritime History, Underwater Exploration, Shotline Diving, Recreational Boating, Mid-20th Century Boats
