Alice G.Tobermory Tugs (Wreck)

Why dive here

Alice G.Tobermory Tugs (Wreck) lies in a species-rich stretch of Québec, with 44+ marine species recorded in the area.

Marine life44+ species recorded

CharacterWreck dive · max 12m

The Alice G., and the pair of Tobermory Tugs alongside her, are probably our favourite introduction to Great Lakes wreck diving for a few reasons. Sitting upright and intact in just 12 metres of freshwater, the visibility here is often fantastic, sometimes pushing 20 metres on a good day, making it perfect for newer divers. We love poking around the Alice G.’s deck, spotting the anchor chain and the sturdy cleats, and then finning over to the tugs, which feel like miniature versions of the larger freighters. What you'll really notice is the sheer volume of invasive zebra mussels covering every surface; they give the wrecks an almost furry texture and filter the water, contributing to that excellent visibility. It’s a fascinating, if slightly eerie, experience to see these engines of industry so completely colonised. Our advice? Go on a weekday morning to avoid the weekend crowds. The lack of current means you can take your time, really soak in the details, and marvel at how these vessels have been reclaimed by the lake.

Typical Alice G.Tobermory Tugs (Wreck) Dive Profile

Illustrative profile based on site depth and type. Actual dive profiles vary - always follow your dive computer and training.

Safety Notes

Wreck site - avoid penetration without wreck diving certification. Watch for sharp metal and entanglement hazards.

Always perform a 3-minute safety stop at 5m before surfacing.

Today05:3819:2213h 44m daylightGolden hour 18:42

Alice G.Tobermory Tugs (Wreck) Wreck History

Year Sunk

1927

Vessel Type

tugboat

Cause

fire

The Alice G is one of the most beloved and accessible wrecks in Tobermory's Fathom Five National Marine Park, a preserve famous for its collection of remarkably preserved shipwrecks. The 56-foot steam-powered tugboat met her end not in a storm, but by fire. In 1927, while moored at the dock, a fire broke out aboard the vessel. As the flames grew uncontrollable, her lines were cut, and she was towed out into Little Tub Harbour to prevent the fire from spreading. There, she burned to the waterline and sank, settling upright on the lakebed.

Today, the Alice G is a premier site for divers of all levels, and even snorkelers, thanks to her shallow depth of just 12 meters and the crystal-clear waters of Georgian Bay. The wreck is remarkably intact, with her boiler, steam engine, and propeller all clearly visible. She sits perfectly upright, as if waiting for her crew to return, offering incredible photo opportunities. As one of the famed 'Tobermory Tugs', the Alice G provides a perfect introduction to the incredible freshwater wreck diving that makes this Canadian park a world-class destination.