Shotline Diving Wreck Profile

• Name: Barge No. 012
• Type: Barge
• Year Built: 1975
• Dimensions: Length X ft (Y m); Beam; Depth of hold
• Depth at Wreck Site: 10.7 m / 35 ft
• Location: Lake Huron, near Thunder Bay, Michigan
• Coordinates: N 45 08.192' W 083 09.554'

Wreck Location Map

Vessel Type

Vessel Type Description
Barge No. 012 is a modern-era utility barge, typically used to transport bulk materials such as coal, ore, gravel, or sand. Built in 1975, it was likely unpowered and towed by tugs, as is common with lake barges. This type of vessel played a vital logistical role in sustaining industrial operations across the Great Lakes during the late 20th century.

Description

Identification & Site Information
Vessel Name: Barge No. 012
Vessel Type: Barge
Year Built: 1975
Final Location: Lake Huron, near Thunder Bay, Michigan
GPS Coordinates: N 45 08.192′ W 083 09.554′
Depth: 35 feet (10.7 metres)

History

History
The historical records for Barge No. 012 are minimal—a common issue with working barges that were not individually registered as self-propelled vessels. Likely operating under contract to industrial carriers, it would have routinely moved cargo between ports. At some point, it was either intentionally abandoned or accidentally sunk at the location off Thunder Bay, now part of a known shipwreck cluster.

Significant Incidents

Final Disposition
Today, Barge No. 012 rests in 35 feet (10.7 metres) of water and forms part of the underwater cultural landscape near Thunder Bay, Michigan. The cause of its sinking is not recorded, but its intact positioning and location suggest it could have been scuttled or sank due to mechanical failure.

Final Disposition

Located By & Date Found
The specific GPS coordinates suggest the wreck is well-known and possibly monitored by the NOAA Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary, although no exact survey or discovery date has been noted.

Current Condition & Accessibility

Notmar & Advisories
There are no NOTMAR warnings directly associated with the barge. However, its position in an active shipwreck and dive preservation zone indicates that caution is advised for local mariners, and dive planning should follow sanctuary guidelines.

Resources & Links

References are being reviewed for this wreck.

Conclusion
Barge No. 012 is one of many submerged industrial vessels on Lake Huron. Though not historically prominent, it contributes to the region’s maritime heritage. As with many commercial barges, her silent presence tells the story of labour, transport, and the working vessels that powered the Great Lakes economy.