Shotline Diving Wreck Profile
- Name: Caroline Rose
- Type: Schooner
- Year Built: 1940
- Builder: Lunenburg, Nova Scotia
- Dimensions: 132 ft (39.6 m); Beam; Depth of hold: 55 ft (16.5 m)
- Registered Tonnage:
- Depth at Wreck Site: 16.5 m / 55 ft
- Location: Driftwood Cove, Georgian Bay
- Number of Masts: Three
Wreck Location Map
Vessel Type
Vessel Type: The Caroline Rose is a three-masted schooner, a type of sailing vessel characterized by its multiple masts and rigging.
Description
The Caroline Rose, built in 1940, has transitioned from a working ship to an artificial reef, providing a unique dive site. It is partially damaged due to storm impact but retains significant portions of its structure, including the stem and rudder.
History
The Caroline Rose has a rich history, initially gaining fame alongside its sister ship, the Bluenose, and appearing on the back of the old Canadian $100 bill. In 1955, it was purchased and relocated to Owen Sound, Ontario, where it was used for charters. Plans to repurpose it as a floating restaurant fell through, leading to its sinking in the harbor due to a failed bilge pump. In 1990, it was purchased for $1 by a group of divers and local businesspeople, towed to Driftwood Cove, and deliberately sunk to create an artificial reef.
Significant Incidents
- 1955: Purchased and relocated to Owen Sound, Ontario, for charters.
- Mid-20th Century: Sank in the harbor due to a failed bilge pump.
- 1990: Deliberately sunk at Driftwood Cove as an artificial reef.
- Post-Sinking: Storm damage dragged the wreck inshore, causing extensive damage.
Final Disposition
The Caroline Rose now rests at the mouth of Driftwood Cove in Georgian Bay. Despite storm damage, it remains an intriguing dive site and a historical artifact of Canadian maritime heritage.
Current Condition & Accessibility
Diving the Caroline Rose offers a unique opportunity to explore a vessel steeped in history. Key features include a concrete block adorned with tools and salvaged items, propellers and rudder on the sandy seabed, and various artifacts scattered nearby. The site serves as both an artificial reef and a historical dive experience.
Resources & Links
[shotline_reference_links slug=”caroline-rose-1940″ title=”References & Links” show_ref_button=”yes”]
As a testament to the resilience of maritime initiatives, the Caroline Rose captivates divers, offering an immersive experience that blends exploration and heritage. Remember to leave only bubbles and take only memories while visiting this remarkable site.
Full Wreck Record — complete historical article, construction details, voyage logs, incident reports, dive conditions, and all research sources.
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