IDENTIFICATION & SITE INFORMATION #
DIVE SITE DESCRIPTION: #
The Washington Island Shipyard is a popular dive site in the St. Lawrence River, known for its rich underwater history and relatively shallow depths. This site is located near Washington Island, one of the many islands that make up the Thousand Islands region. The area is notable for its clear waters, diverse aquatic life, and the remnants of historical shipbuilding activities.
HISTORY: #
The Washington Island Shipyard area was historically a site of shipbuilding and repair activities, particularly during the 19th and early 20th centuries when the St. Lawrence River was a bustling waterway for commerce and trade. The shipyard would have been used to construct, repair, and possibly decommission ships that sailed the Great Lakes and the St. Lawrence River. Over time, remnants of these activities, such as hulls, ship parts, and other artifacts, have settled on the riverbed, creating an intriguing dive site.
DIVE CONDITIONS: #
- Visibility: The St. Lawrence River typically offers good visibility, especially in the shallower areas near the islands. Visibility can range from 20 to 50 feet (6 to 15 meters) depending on conditions.
- Current: The river is known for its moderate currents, which can vary based on location and time of year. Divers should be prepared for drift diving conditions and use appropriate safety measures.
- Temperature: Water temperatures can vary significantly, ranging from around 70°F (21°C) in the summer to much colder temperatures in the spring and fall. A wetsuit or drysuit is recommended depending on the season.
ATTRACTIONS: #
- Shipwrecks and Artifacts: Divers at the Washington Island Shipyard can explore remnants of the shipbuilding era, including parts of wooden hulls, old machinery, and other maritime artifacts scattered across the site. While not all remains are from fully intact shipwrecks, they offer a fascinating glimpse into the region’s maritime history.
- Natural Scenery: The site also features interesting rock formations and a variety of aquatic life typical of the St. Lawrence River. The combination of historical artifacts and natural beauty makes it a unique and engaging dive site.
SAFETY & ACCESSIBILITY: #
- Access: The site is best accessed by boat, with several dive charters in the Thousand Islands area offering trips to Washington Island Shipyard and other nearby sites. Shore access is limited, and divers should ensure they are adequately prepared for boat diving.
- Difficulty Level: The site is suitable for divers of all levels, though basic drift diving experience is recommended due to the moderate currents. The relatively shallow depths make it an excellent location for longer dives with plenty of time to explore.
- Guidelines: Divers should always follow local guidelines, including respecting protected areas, not disturbing historical artifacts, and adhering to safe diving practices.
RESOURCES & LINKS: #
- Thousand Islands Dive Excursions: Local dive operators that offer guided dives to the Washington Island Shipyard and other nearby sites.
- Clayton Diving Club: A local diving organization that may provide additional resources, dive logs, and detailed information about the Washington Island Shipyard.
- Thousand Islands Museum: Offers historical context and exhibits related to the maritime history of the area, including shipbuilding activities around Washington Island.
PHOTOS: #
Underwater photography from the Washington Island Shipyard might be available through local dive operators or from divers who have explored the site. These images can often be found on diving forums or social media platforms dedicated to underwater exploration.
