Lethargy – Lake Champlain Yacht Shipwreck (1957)

Explore the depths of Lake Champlain where the Lethargy, a private motor yacht, rests after a catastrophic explosion in 1957.

needs_location 0 sources on file
WaterbodyLake Champlain
Loss year1957
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Shotline Diving Wreck Profile

  • Name: Lethargy
  • Type: Private Motor Yacht
  • Year Built:
  • Builder:
  • Dimensions: Specific dimensions not provided
  • Registered Tonnage:
  • Depth at Wreck Site: 99 m / 325 ft
  • Location: Off the coast of Juniper Island, Lake Champlain
  • Original Owners: Irving Kaufman

Wreck Location Map

Vessel Type

Private Motor Yacht

Description

The Lethargy was a private motor yacht owned by Irving Kaufman. Details regarding its construction, including the builder, year of manufacture, and specific dimensions, are not readily available. The vessel was utilized for personal recreation on Lake Champlain.

History

On July 16, 1957, at approximately 2:00 PM, the Lethargy experienced a catastrophic bilge explosion while navigating near Juniper Island in Lake Champlain. The explosion led to a fire that ultimately caused the vessel to burn and sink. Irving Kaufman and his son, Mortimer, were on board during the incident. Specific details about their fate are not provided in the available sources. The Lethargy now rests at a depth of approximately 325 feet (99 meters), making it one of the deepest known wreck sites in Lake Champlain.

Significant Incidents

  • July 16, 1957: Catastrophic bilge explosion leading to fire and sinking.

Final Disposition

The wreck of the Lethargy remains submerged off the coast of Juniper Island in Lake Champlain. Due to the significant depth of approximately 325 feet (99 meters), the site is beyond the reach of standard recreational diving and has not been extensively explored. The exact condition of the wreck is unknown, and no salvage operations have been reported.

Current Condition & Accessibility

The precise location of the Lethargy’s wreck has been documented, but specific details regarding the discovery and any subsequent surveys are limited. The site remains largely unexplored due to its depth.

Resources & Links

[shotline_reference_links slug=”lethargy” title=”References & Links”]

Mariners operating in the vicinity of Juniper Island are advised to be aware of the submerged wreck of the Lethargy. While the depth minimizes the risk of direct interaction, it is prudent to exercise caution to avoid any potential hazards associated with the site.

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Full Wreck Record — complete historical article, construction details, voyage logs, incident reports, dive conditions, and all research sources.

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