Shotline Diving

Connecting You to the Depths of the Great Lakes

Arabia (1852)

Explore the well-preserved wreck of the barkentine Arabia, a time capsule of maritime history resting in Georgian Bay, Ontario.

Shotline Diving Wreck Profile

  • Name: Arabia
  • Type: Barque (Wooden Barkentine)
  • Year Built: 1853
  • Builder: George Thurston
  • Dimensions: 140 ft (43 m); Beam; Depth of hold
  • Registered Tonnage: 300-310 tons
  • Depth at Wreck Site: 33 m / 100 ft
  • Location: Tobermory, Georgian Bay, Lake Huron
  • Coordinates: N 45°18.713′, W 081°40.444′
  • Official Number: 32844
  • Original Owners: J. Boyd & Co., Ferguson & Co., Nichols
  • Number of Masts: Three

Wreck Location Map

Vessel Type

The Arabia is classified as a barkentine, a type of sailing vessel rigged with square sails on the foremast and fore-and-aft sails on the remaining masts. This rigging style was popular in the mid-19th century, allowing for efficient sailing with a smaller crew.

Description

The wreck of the Arabia lies at a depth of approximately 100 feet (33 meters) in the cold, clear waters of Georgian Bay. The vessel is remarkably well-preserved, serving as a time capsule of 19th-century maritime history. The hull remains largely intact, with notable features including the bow, masts, and various artifacts scattered around the site.

History

Constructed in Kingston, Ontario, the Arabia was launched on April 26, 1853. Built by George Thurston, she was designed for both Great Lakes and transatlantic voyages. Over her 31-year career, she was involved in various trades, primarily transporting grain and timber. The vessel changed ownership multiple times, reflecting the dynamic nature of maritime commerce in the region.

Significant Incidents

  • Fire at Oswego (1853): The Arabia was damaged during the Great Oswego Fire but was repaired and returned to service.
  • Grounding at Sodus Point (1854): The vessel ran aground but was successfully refloated with minimal damage.
  • Grounding at Flowerpot Island (1883): The Arabia ran aground near Flowerpot Island but was refloated and repaired.

Final Disposition

On October 5, 1884, during a severe gale, the Arabia foundered near Echo Island, sinking with her cargo of corn. Fortunately, all crew members survived, rescued by a passing tug. The wreck remains a significant site for divers and historians alike.

Current Condition & Accessibility

The wreck of the Arabia is located within Fathom Five National Marine Park, where it is protected by law. The cold freshwater environment has preserved the wreck exceptionally well, making it a popular dive site for experienced divers.

Resources & Links

The Arabia serves as a testament to the maritime history of the Great Lakes, offering insights into 19th-century shipbuilding and trade. Divers are encouraged to respect the site, adhering to the principle of ‘leave only bubbles, take only memories.’