Shotline Diving Wreck Profile

• Name: York Packet (formerly Comet)
• Type: Wooden Schooner
• Dimensions: Not documented
• Location: Niagara, Ontario

Wreck Location Map

Vessel Type

The York Packet, previously named the Comet, was a wooden schooner integral to the growing trade and passenger networks on Lake Ontario. Its renaming suggests a change in ownership or operational purpose during its service life.

Description

The York Packet was a key player in Lake Ontario’s maritime trade, serving routes between York (now Toronto), Kingston, and Niagara.

History

During the November 1820 gale, the York Packet was driven ashore near Niagara, Ontario. The schooner sustained severe damage during the storm and was declared unfit for further service, marking the end of its operational life.

Significant Incidents

• The York Packet was grounded and heavily damaged during a gale in November 1820.
• It was subsequently abandoned due to its unfit condition for further service.

Final Disposition

The York Packet was grounded and heavily damaged, leading to its abandonment. Salvage efforts likely focused on recovering usable materials, as was common practice for wrecked vessels during this era.

Current Condition & Accessibility

No remains of the York Packet have been located or documented in modern times. It is presumed that the wreck deteriorated over time or was salvaged shortly after the incident.

Resources & Links

References are being reviewed for this wreck.

The severe damage to the York Packet and its subsequent abandonment illustrate the vulnerability of even well-maintained vessels to sudden and violent weather events on Lake Ontario. The loss disrupted regional maritime operations, emphasizing the perils faced by 19th-century sailors.