GPS Location: N45° 19.526' W83° 13.106'
Depth: 180 Feet
Wreck Length: 138 Feet Beam: 26 Feet
Gross Tonnage: 322 Cargo: Grain
Launched: 1874 by Thomas Windiate at Manitowoc, Wisconsin
Wrecked: November 27, 1875
Description: For many years, the story of the Windiate's disappearance was a mystery. It was thought to have gone down in Lake Michigan, since it was spotted there in a fall gale and was never seen again. More than 100 years later, the wreck was discovered deep in Lake Huron's waters. The ship is in nearly perfect condition with masts upright, cabin intact, and the yawl boat lying alongside the stern. The Windiate is now thought to have sunk because heavy seas covered the decks in ice causing it to settle slowly to the bottom of the lake. No signs of the eight crewmen have ever been found. Click here to read more about the Cornelia B. Windiate.
Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary: Enjoy diving the wrecks of Thunder Bay, but always respect the past. State and federal laws prohibit removing or disturbing artifacts. Future generations are depending on us to leave historic shipwrecks intact. Please take only pictures and leave only bubbles. Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary Shipwreck List
The Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary maintains seasonal moorings at many shipwreck sites. Available from May to September, the moorings make for safer diving and also protect shipwrecks from anchor damage. Sanctuary regulations require vessels to use moorings when present. Mooring Buoy Interactive Map
Things To Do
Scuba Diving or Snorkeling