Shotline Diving Wreck Profile
- Name: Muskokalite
- Type: Tugboat / Supply Boat
- Year Built:
- Builder:
- Dimensions: Unknown; described as an 8,000-gallon capacity supply tug
- Registered Tonnage: Unknown
- Location: Bala, Ontario
- Official Number: Unknown
- Original Owners: Imperial Oil Company
- Number of Masts: Unknown
Wreck Location Map
Vessel Type
Tugboat / Supply Boat
Description
The Muskokalite was a small commercial supply tug operated by the Imperial Oil Company in the Muskoka region of Ontario. Its primary function was transporting fuel or related supplies to remote and waterfront communities. The vessel was stationed in Bala, a town on Lake Muskoka, located approximately 15 miles (24 km) northwest of Gravenhurst and near Georgian Bay.
On July 10, 1948, while docked or moored at the Imperial Oil Company boathouse in Bala, the Muskokalite was destroyed in a sudden and catastrophic explosion. The cause of the explosion was undetermined at the time.
History
The Muskokalite was utilized primarily for the transportation of fuel and supplies in the Muskoka region, serving remote communities and waterfront areas. Its operational history is largely undocumented, but it was active by the 1940s.
Significant Incidents
- Fatality: Harvey Commondant of Bala – Engineer aboard the Muskokalite
- Injured:
- Capt. Alvin Croucher, 35, of Bracebridge – suffered severe burns and shock
- Carl Goodwin, 30, truck driver from Parry Sound – broken ankle
Final Disposition
Destroyed by fire and explosion. The vessel was completely lost.
Located By & Date Found
Nil – The wreckage was likely cleared shortly after the incident due to its location at a commercial fuelling site and because it occurred in a populated town area.
Current Condition & Accessibility
Nil – The vessel exploded dockside in Bala; no current hazard to navigation is likely present, and no markings are indicated on modern navigational charts.
Resources & Links
[shotline_reference_links slug=”muskokalite-pre-1948″ title=”References & Links”]
The Muskokalite serves as a reminder of the dangers associated with maritime operations, particularly in the transportation of fuel and supplies. The tragic explosion resulted in loss of life and injuries, highlighting the need for safety measures in similar operations.
Full Wreck Record — complete historical article, construction details, voyage logs, incident reports, dive conditions, and all research sources.
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