wreck

Log This Dive

USS Philadelphia

Diving the USS Philadelphia isn’t about huge pelagics or colourful reef fish; it’s about touching history. This isn't just a pile of timbers; it’s an American gunboat from 1776, remarkably preserved in the cold freshwater of Lake Champlain. When you descend, the visibility can stretch, letting you pick out details like the cannon still resting on its mount, or the intact hull planks. We particularly love the bow section, where you can almost picture the crew peering out. Our favourite time to dive it is early morning, before any potential boat traffic kicks up the sediment. The wreck itself has become home to a unique mix of freshwater species. You’ll spot schools of yellow perch darting through the gunports, American eels snaking through the decking, and maybe even a fat sleeper lurking in the darker corners. It’s a quiet, contemplative dive, a genuine privilege for anyone who appreciates maritime history and a very different kind of shipwreck.