wreck

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W. L. Wetmore (Wreck)

The W. L. Wetmore isn’t your typical tropical wreck, and that’s precisely why we love it. This isn't about blazing colours; it's about history, cold water, and the quiet colonisation of a sunken steamboat by freshwater life. Dropping down, the first thing you notice is the way the light filters, or rather doesn't, through the St. Lawrence River's green embrace. This wreck is all about the structure, the skeletal remains of a paddle steamer that met its end over a century ago. We find ourselves drawn to the paddlewheel housing, a massive, ghostly frame, and the exposed ribs of the hull. Look closely into the shadowy nooks, and you’ll often spot burbot, those eel-like bottom dwellers, or a Yellow Perch darting from cover. We always get a kick out of seeing the Mottled Sculpin, blending in perfectly with the decaying wood. Visibility here can vary wildly, so pick a calm day after a period of stable weather for the best chance to really soak in the details. It’s a dive for those who appreciate history and the unique resilience of freshwater ecosystems, a quiet exploration rather than a vibrant spectacle.