ANN

IDENTIFICATION & SITE INFORMATION #

VESSEL TYPE DESCRIPTION: #

The Ann was a tour boat, a type of vessel designed to carry passengers on sightseeing excursions, typically offering scenic views and guided tours of notable landmarks. Tour boats like the Ann were popular in the St. Lawrence River region, particularly around the Thousand Islands, where visitors flocked to enjoy the natural beauty and historic sites. These boats were often equipped with open decks and comfortable seating to maximize the experience for passengers.

HISTORY: #

The Ann served as a tour boat in the St. Lawrence River, providing passengers with picturesque views of the surrounding islands, including Grindstone Island, and other notable features of the Thousand Islands region. The tour boat industry has long been a staple of the local economy, offering both locals and tourists the opportunity to explore the area’s natural beauty from the water.

FINAL DISPOSITION: #

The Ann met its end at the head of Grindstone Island, where it now lies partially submerged, with parts of the wreck still protruding above the waterline. The circumstances leading to the wreck are not well-documented, but it could have been due to grounding, weather-related incidents, or structural failure. The sight of the wrecked Ann has since become a notable landmark for those navigating the area.

NOTMARs & ADVISORIES: #

There are no specific Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) related to the Ann wreck, but the protruding structure serves as a natural warning to boaters in the area. Mariners should exercise caution when navigating near the wreck to avoid any potential hazards.

LOCATED BY & DATE: #

The wreck of the Ann is easily visible due to its location and the fact that it protrudes from the water. It has likely been known to locals and mariners for some time, serving as a reminder of the vessel’s history and the sometimes perilous conditions on the St. Lawrence River.

CURRENT CONDITION & ACCESSIBILITY: #

The Ann is partially submerged but remains visible above the water, making it accessible for exploration, especially for kayakers, small boat operators, and even snorkelers. The wreck’s exposed structure offers a unique opportunity to observe the remains of a historical tour boat, though care should be taken to avoid causing further damage to the site.

RESOURCES & LINKS: #

• Thousand Islands Museum, Clayton, NY: This museum may have more historical information or photographs of the Ann before its wreck.
• St. Lawrence River Historical Foundation: Offers insights into the maritime history of the area, including the role of tour boats in the local economy.
• Local Boating Guides: These resources may provide navigational advice for safely exploring the waters around Grindstone Island, including the location of the Ann wreck.

PHOTOS: #

There may be photographs available of the wreck in its current state, likely captured by local residents or visiting tourists. These images may be found in local historical archives, on social media, or through diving and boating forums.

KEYWORDS: #

Ann tour boat, Grindstone Island wreck, St. Lawrence River shipwreck, tour boat history, shallow water wreck, maritime history, Thousand Islands, wreck exploration.