Record – Other Steamer Shipwreck

Shotline Diving Wreck Profile

• Name: Unknown
• Type: Submerged wreck, dangerous to surface navigation
• Year Built:
• Builder:
• Dimensions: Length X ft (Y m); Beam; Depth of hold
• Registered Tonnage:
• Depth at Wreck Site: 0.06 m / 0.2 ft
• Location: Entrance to DeTour Harbor, Lake Huron
• Coordinates: 45° 59′ 42″ N, 83° 53′ 54″ W

Wreck Location Map

Vessel Type

Type: Submerged wreck, likely partially buried or extremely deteriorated, lying just below the waterline.

Description

Condition:

• Classified as dangerous to surface navigation due to its proximity to the water’s surface.
• Minimal information on the wreck’s structure, type, or historical background.

History

Discovery and Hydrographic Survey:

• Survey H10313/89 identified a dangerous submerged wreck in 1989 at the entrance to DeTour Harbor, Lake Huron.
• The hydrographer noted a least depth of 0.2 feet but did not provide detailed positional or depth information at the time.
• Based on survey annotations, it was recommended that the wreck be charted as “Dangerous Submerged Wreck (PA)” (Position Approximate).

Historical Context:

• The lack of documentation or a reported sinking year suggests the wreck may have been lost without formal records or was deliberately abandoned.
• Its dangerous classification highlights its potential to damage vessels navigating into DeTour Harbor.

Marine Safety Manual (MSM):

Entered into records in November 1991 for inclusion on nautical charts as a hazard to navigation.

Final Disposition

Charting: Marked as a dangerous submerged wreck on navigation charts for DeTour Harbor, Lake Huron.

Current Condition & Accessibility

Access:

• Not recommended for diving due to the shallow depth and risk to navigation.
• High caution advised for mariners in the vicinity.

Hazard Description:

• Extremely shallow wreckage with minimal clearance from the surface (0.2 feet depth).
• Location poses a significant risk to vessels entering DeTour Harbor, particularly smaller crafts or those operating in low water conditions.

Recommendations:

• Avoid the area marked as the wreck’s location unless necessary.
• Mariners should consult up-to-date nautical charts and Notices to Mariners for hazard details.

Resources & Links

[shotline_reference_links slug=”record-8198″ title=”References & Links” show_ref_button=”yes”]

This wreck underscores the dangers posed by unmarked and shallow wreckage in high-traffic areas like harbor entrances. While its origin remains unknown, its hazardous nature makes it a critical feature for charting and navigation safety.