Shipwreck Exploration Near Chatham-Kent  
Deep below lake surfaces near Chatham-Kent, divers can explore sunken ships that fell victim to damaging storms, tragic fires or human error during their travels along busy shipping channels. Countless ships were lost to the Great Lakes during the 1800's and 20 of them can be found near here. 

The warm fresh waters of Lake Erie and Lake St. Clair offer exceptional views of the shipwrecks, many of which remain virtually intact. Divers can see propellers and rudders, steam engines and boilers and penetrate the interior of some ships. The wrecks are at varying depths, offering exploration for certified divers of novice and advanced skill.

Between April and November, weather permitting, Red Devil Scuba charter service provides dive excursions to nearby wrecks. Divers learn the history and tragic fate of the ship before the dive.

In these watery graves, divers may explore The Lycoming, a wooden steamer that caught fire in 1910 and had to be cut loose and set adrift to save the Erieau dock. Or they can visit The James B. Colgate, one of only 43 whaleback steamers that sank during the notorious Black Storm of 1916. In its grave, The Colonial, an 1882 wooden steamer showcases its brass bell, engine, boiler and more.

Morning or afternoon charters are available with departures from the quaint village of Erieau. Excursions must be booked in advance by calling 519.358.1988.

For more information on Chatham-Kent, please contact Chatham-Kent Tourism at 1.800.561.6125/519.354.6125 or at Cktourism@chatham-kent.ca