IDENTIFICATION & SITE INFORMATION #
DIVE SITE DESCRIPTION: #
The Frontenac Hotel Dockage is a well-known dive site in the Thousand Islands region of the St. Lawrence River. It is located at the former docking area of the historic Frontenac Hotel, which was a grand hotel that operated during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The site offers divers a unique opportunity to explore the remnants of the dockage area, including underwater structures and artifacts associated with the hotel’s history.
HISTORY: #
The Frontenac Hotel was a luxurious resort located on Round Island, one of the many islands in the Thousand Islands region. Built in 1878, the hotel was a popular destination for wealthy tourists during the Gilded Age. Guests would arrive by steamboat, docking at the hotel’s elaborate piers. However, the hotel was destroyed by fire in 1911, and much of its infrastructure was lost to history. The dockage area, however, remains a submerged testament to this once-grand establishment.
DIVE CONDITIONS: #
- Visibility: The St. Lawrence River generally offers good visibility, with this site typically providing clear water conditions. Visibility can range from 20 to 50 feet (6 to 15 meters), depending on factors like water flow and time of year.
- Current: The current at this site is generally mild, making it suitable for beginners, but divers should always be prepared for occasional stronger currents typical of the river.
- Temperature: Water temperatures can vary significantly, from around 70°F (21°C) in the summer to much cooler temperatures in the spring and fall. A wetsuit or drysuit is recommended based on the season.
ATTRACTIONS: #
- Underwater Structures: Divers can explore the remains of the Frontenac Hotel’s dockage area, including submerged pilings, foundations, and other remnants of the hotel’s infrastructure.
- Artifacts: The site may also reveal artifacts from the hotel’s operational period, such as bottles, ceramics, and other items that were lost or discarded over a century ago.
- Aquatic Life: The site is also home to various fish species and aquatic plants, adding to the visual interest of the dive.
SAFETY & ACCESSIBILITY: #
- Access: The site is typically accessed by boat, with several dive charters operating in the Thousand Islands area offering trips to the Frontenac Hotel Dockage site. Shore access is limited due to private property and the nature of the location.
- Difficulty Level: This site is suitable for divers of all levels, including beginners. The relatively shallow depth and mild current make it an excellent location for training dives or leisurely exploration.
- Guidelines: Divers should adhere to local regulations, respect the historical significance of the site by not removing artifacts, and follow safe diving practices.
RESOURCES & LINKS: #
- Thousand Islands Dive Excursions: Local dive operators that provide guided dives to the Frontenac Hotel Dockage and other sites in the Thousand Islands region.
- Thousand Islands Museum: Offers historical exhibits and information about the Frontenac Hotel and other notable sites in the area.
- St. Lawrence River Historical Foundation: Provides context on the region’s maritime history, including the legacy of the grand hotels and their role in the Gilded Age tourism boom.
PHOTOS: #
Underwater photography from the Frontenac Hotel Dockage site may be available through local dive operators or from divers who have explored the site. Images can often be found on diving forums, social media platforms, or shared through local diving communities.
