Shotline Diving Wreck Profile
- Name: Raymond
- Type: Sailing Yacht
- Year Built:
- Builder:
- Dimensions: Length X ft (Y m); Beam; Depth of hold
- Registered Tonnage:
- Depth at Wreck Site: 11.6 m / 38 ft
- Location: St. Lawrence River, near Round Island
- Coordinates: 44°15.542’N, 76°02.788’W
Wreck Location Map
Vessel Type
The Raymond was a sailing yacht of undetermined construction origin and date. The vessel featured an auxiliary engine to complement its sails, reflecting the dual propulsion systems often employed by yachts of the early 20th century. This design enabled versatility in navigating the often challenging conditions of the St. Lawrence River.
Description
The sailing yacht Raymond met its demise in 1925, when it was severely damaged by fire. The flames reached the waterline, destroying much of the vessel above the hull. Despite the extensive fire damage, the lower hull, parts of the auxiliary engine, and a portion of the mast remained intact and were preserved under the water.
The wreck of the Raymond lies at the foot of Round Island, along the inside channel of the St. Lawrence River. This area is known for its complex underwater topography and historical significance, with numerous shipwrecks scattered along its course.
History
In 1969, members of the Clayton Diving Club discovered the wreck of the Raymond while using dive planes to search for a War of 1812 gunboat rumored to be in the vicinity. Although their initial goal was to uncover historical military artifacts, the club stumbled upon the Raymond, adding to the rich maritime history of the St. Lawrence River.
Significant Incidents
- The Raymond was severely damaged by fire in 1925, leading to its sinking.
Final Disposition
The Raymond is extensively damaged due to fire, with most of the structure above the waterline destroyed. The remaining lower hull is intact, along with remnants of its auxiliary engine and part of the mast.
Current Condition & Accessibility
The wreck rests at a manageable depth of 38 feet (11.6 meters), making it accessible to recreational divers. The site is relatively shallow and suitable for divers of various experience levels. Visibility in the area may vary depending on current and sediment conditions.
Resources & Links
[shotline_reference_links slug=”raymond” title=”References & Links”]
The wreck of the Raymond stands as a symbol of the dynamic history of the St. Lawrence River. While its story lacks the drama of large-scale maritime disasters, the yacht’s fiery demise and serendipitous rediscovery add depth to the narrative of the region’s waterways. Today, the Raymond provides a rewarding site for divers and history enthusiasts, offering insights into early 20th-century yacht design and the ever-present risks of fire and navigation on the water.
Full Wreck Record — complete historical article, construction details, voyage logs, incident reports, dive conditions, and all research sources.
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