John & Alex (1924)

Shotline Diving Wreck Profile

• Name: John and Alex
• Type: Fish Tug
• Year Built: 1924
• Builder:
• Dimensions: Length: 59 ft (18 m); Beam: Not documented; Depth of hold: Not documented
• Registered Tonnage:
• Depth at Wreck Site: 12.2 m / 40 ft
• Location: Little Tub Harbour, Ontario
• Official Number: Not Available

Wreck Location Map

Vessel Type

The John and Alex was a wooden-hulled fish tug, a vessel type commonly used in the Great Lakes commercial fishing industry. These tugs were designed for towing fishing nets and carrying catches from fishing grounds to markets.

Description

Built in 1924, the John and Alex served for over two decades as a working fish tug on Lake Huron. Fish tugs like the John and Alex were integral to the fishing industry in the early 20th century, providing reliable transport for large hauls of fish.

The vessel sank in 1947 under circumstances not extensively documented, though it likely succumbed to structural failure or severe weather, common risks for wooden vessels after years of service.

History

The wreck lies at depths ranging from 15 ft to 40 ft (4.6 m to 12.2 m) in Little Tub Harbour, Ontario, a popular area for recreational diving.

Significant Incidents

• The wreckage is mostly disarticulated, with portions of the bottom and sides still intact.
• The site is accessible from shore, making it an ideal dive for recreational enthusiasts.
• It is one of four tug wrecks located in Little Tub Harbour, equipped with shore-based facilities, including a dive platform and changing areas.

Final Disposition

The wreck is well-documented and featured as part of the dive attractions in Tobermory, the “Freshwater Scuba Diving Capital of the World.” Its accessibility and historical significance make it a key site for diving education and exploration.

Current Condition & Accessibility

The site’s shallow depths and shore accessibility make it suitable for divers of all skill levels. However, visitors are encouraged to respect the historical value of the wreck and adhere to guidelines prohibiting the disturbance or removal of artifacts.

Resources & Links

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As you explore the John & Alex, remember to leave only bubbles and take only memories. Be the diver that makes a difference by respecting this historical site and its surroundings.