Shotline Diving

Connecting You to the Depths of the Great Lakes

Whiskey Island Cabin Cruiser

Explore the 30-foot cabin cruiser wreck near Whiskey Island, a relic of 1970s recreational boating in the St. Lawrence River.

Shotline Diving Wreck Profile

  • Name: Whiskey Island Cabin Cruiser
  • Type: Cabin Cruiser
  • Dimensions: 30 ft (9 m); Beam; Depth of hold
  • Location: Whiskey Island, St. Lawrence River, New York

Wreck Location Map

Vessel Type

The 30-foot cabin cruiser near Whiskey Island reflects the popular design of recreational boats from the 1970s, an era when leisure boating thrived in North America. Built for comfort, performance, and versatility, these vessels were ideal for family outings, overnight trips, and cruising on lakes, rivers, and coastal waters.

Description

Key Features:

Fiberglass Hull: Common for the era, likely with a V-shaped or modified V-hull for stability and smooth performance.

Cabin Layout:

A V-berth for sleeping, mid-berth for additional passengers, and compact galley for basic meal preparation.

Private head (bathroom) with marine toilet and sink for overnight convenience.

Cockpit and Deck:

Open cockpit with U- or L-shaped seating for relaxation.

Swim platform for water access and recreational activities.

Power: Gasoline engine, likely a V8 with stern drive or inboard propulsion, enabling speeds of 15–30 knots.

Design: Rounded lines, large windows, possible teak accents, and hull graphics reflective of 1970s trends.

History

The cabin cruiser lying near Whiskey Island likely sank due to an accident, neglect, or storm. While the exact circumstances remain unknown, the wreck embodies the recreational boating culture of the era. The St. Lawrence River, with its diverse aquatic environment, has turned the wreck into an ecological habitat, encrusted with organisms like zebra mussels and algae.

Significant Incidents

Significance:

The wreck provides a window into 1970s recreational boating, highlighting the design and functionality of vessels that defined an era of family adventures on the water.

Final Disposition

Located in shallow waters, the site is accessible to snorkelers and divers, offering an opportunity to explore:

  • The cabin layout and structure.
  • Potential remnants of the engine and mechanical components.
  • The cockpit and swim platform, now part of the river’s underwater ecosystem.

Current Condition & Accessibility

Diving Considerations:

Be cautious of sharp edges, debris, and entanglement risks. Respect local regulations and guidelines to preserve the site for future exploration.

Resources & Links

References are being reviewed for this wreck.

The 30-foot cabin cruiser near Whiskey Island offers a unique connection to the golden era of recreational boating. As an accessible underwater site, it invites divers and history enthusiasts to engage with a tangible piece of maritime culture, while also serving as a quiet reminder of the lasting bond between people, their boats, and the open water.