Shotline Diving Wreck Profile
- Name: ATLANTIC (formerly MANITOULIN)
- Type: Wooden Propeller Steamship
- Year Built: 1880
- Builder: John Simpson
- Dimensions: Length 147 ft (44.8 m); Beam 30 ft (9.1 m); Depth of hold 11 ft (3.4 m)
- Registered Tonnage: Gross: 683 tons; Net: 442 tons
- Location: Georgian Bay, near Campbell’s Rock and Spruce Rock
- Coordinates: Exact coordinates unavailable
Wreck Location Map
Vessel Type
The ATLANTIC, originally the MANITOULIN, was a wooden propeller-driven steamship primarily serving as a passenger and freight carrier on Georgian Bay. Known for its robust build, the vessel featured a 350-horsepower steeple compound engine from Doty Engine Works and carried supplies, lumber, coal oil, and passengers. Its dual role reflected the versatility of Great Lakes vessels, which often balanced commercial transport with community-oriented excursions.
Description
The ATLANTIC, originally the MANITOULIN, was built in 1880 and became a vital part of Georgian Bay’s maritime operations. After a devastating fire in 1882, it was salvaged and rebuilt, resuming operations with enhanced features. The vessel was known for transporting goods and passengers across Georgian Bay until its tragic end in 1903.
History
Construction and Early Years (1880–1882)
Built in 1880 as the MANITOULIN by John Simpson in Owen Sound, the vessel quickly became a vital part of Georgian Bay’s maritime operations. Its routes connected Collingwood with Sault Ste. Marie, supporting the region’s growing economy. In May 1882, a devastating fire nearly destroyed the MANITOULIN, resulting in the tragic loss of 25–40 lives. Despite the calamity, the vessel was salvaged and rebuilt at the Owen Sound Dry Dock Company.
Rebirth as ATLANTIC (1882–1903)
After reconstruction, the ship was renamed the ATLANTIC and resumed operations with enhanced features: fireproofing measures were added, 32 staterooms provided improved accommodations, and a lengthened hull increased its cargo and passenger capacity. For over 20 years, the ATLANTIC transported goods and passengers across Georgian Bay, ranging from hauling supplies to lumber camps to hosting joyful Sunday School excursions.
Final Voyage and Tragic End
On November 10, 1903, while en route to Byng Inlet with a cargo of lumber camp supplies, the ATLANTIC encountered a fierce storm near Pancake Islands in Georgian Bay. Severe winds and waves caused irreparable damage to the ship. In an attempt to save the vessel, the crew jettisoned cargo and the aft cabin. The vessel caught fire during the chaos, resulting in its total destruction. Passengers and crew escaped in lifeboats, and fortunately, no casualties were reported. The burning wreck drifted to Campbell’s Rock, where it sank.
Significant Incidents
- May 1882: A fire nearly destroyed the MANITOULIN, resulting in the loss of 25–40 lives.
- November 10, 1903: The ATLANTIC caught fire during a storm, leading to its total destruction.
Final Disposition
Date of Loss: November 10, 1903
Cause of Loss: Fire and storm damage
Condition: Completely destroyed, remnants submerged
Current Status: Popular dive site near Spruce Rock, Georgian Bay
Current Condition & Accessibility
The wreck of the ATLANTIC lies submerged near Spruce Rock in Georgian Bay. While much of the wooden structure has deteriorated, the site remains a popular dive destination for its historical significance and intriguing remnants. Visibility and water conditions in Georgian Bay can vary, so divers should plan accordingly.
Resources & Links
[shotline_reference_links slug=”atlantic-manitoulin” title=”References & Links”]
The story of the ATLANTIC—from its early days as the MANITOULIN to its tragic end—encapsulates the resilience and perils of Great Lakes maritime history. The vessel’s transformation following the 1882 fire and its ultimate destruction in 1903 highlight both the ingenuity of 19th-century shipbuilding and the unforgiving nature of the region’s waters. Today, the ATLANTIC’s wreck remains a silent witness to the challenges faced by sailors and serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of Great Lakes vessels.
Full Wreck Record — complete historical article, construction details, voyage logs, incident reports, dive conditions, and all research sources.
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