Shotline Diving Wreck Profile
- Name: Unknown (Partial Shipwreck)
- Type: Shipwreck
- Year Built:
- Builder:
- Dimensions: Unknown
- Registered Tonnage:
- Depth at Wreck Site: 4.3 m / 14 ft
- Location: Ray Bay, Lake Ontario
Wreck Location Map
Vessel Type
The wreck is presumed to be the remains of a wooden vessel, likely a schooner, barge, or early steamboat, typical of the 19th and early 20th centuries.
Description
The site consists of partial remains of a wooden shipwreck, with significant sections of the side structure visible. The wreck is heavily deteriorated but retains notable side sections that can be observed both underwater and in sonar imagery. The shallow location makes it vulnerable to environmental and human impact.
History
The identity of the wreck remains unknown. However, given its location in Lake Ontario and the partial state of the wreckage, it is likely the remains of a wooden schooner, barge, or early steamboat. These vessels were common in the region during the 19th and early 20th centuries, carrying goods such as timber, coal, and grain. Ray Bay’s proximity to shipping routes and ports suggests the ship may have been lost due to weather, collisions, or grounding.
Significant Incidents
- Discovery Reported by Daniel Gildea to the Watertown Daily Times in March 2021.
- Survey conducted by Sonarguy.com on November 22, 2020, using side-scan sonar and underwater video.
Final Disposition
The wreck is currently a confirmed site, with no known salvage operations reported. It remains a valuable resource for local historians, divers, and fishing enthusiasts.
Current Condition & Accessibility
The wreck is heavily deteriorated but retains notable side sections. It is often frequented by local fishermen and is noted as a productive bass fishing spot. The wreckage is visible from the surface on sunny days due to the shallow depth.
Resources & Links
[shotline_reference_links slug=”ray-bay-wreck” title=”References & Links” show_ref_button=”yes”]
As a shallow wreck in a frequently visited area, the site is at risk of degradation from natural forces and human activity. Divers are encouraged to practice ethical behavior by leaving only bubbles and taking only memories, while also considering the removal of any garbage to leave the site better than found.
Full Wreck Record — complete historical article, construction details, voyage logs, incident reports, dive conditions, and all research sources.
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