Identification & Site Information

Vessel Type Description

This 1927 Cabin Cruiser, a 65-foot wooden vessel, epitomizes the luxury and grace of early 20th-century recreational boating. The cruiser was crafted for leisure, featuring elegant woodwork, spacious cabins, and panoramic windows for scenic river excursions. The vessel was equipped with a cozy saloon, a finely furnished galley, and a dining area suited for elegant gatherings. The cruiser’s external design featured a sleek bow, streamlined superstructure, and ample Deck space, blending functionality with aesthetic appeal.

Powered by a gasoline engine, this Cabin Cruiser was not only visually stunning but also reliable and nimble, capable of navigating the St. Lawrence River’s winding channels with ease. During the Roaring Twenties, vessels like this one became symbols of luxury and social sophistication, often seen as a testament to American craftsmanship and the leisurely lifestyle of the era’s affluent.

History

This cruiser, built in 1927, reflected the height of American craftsmanship in luxury recreational boating. Tailored for those seeking scenic voyages along the St. Lawrence River, it was a prized possession among those who valued both performance and elegance. However, despite its iconic design and luxurious amenities, the cruiser met an untimely end off Wolfe Island. The details surrounding its sinking remain obscure, though the vessel has become a symbol of a time when pleasure cruising along the St. Lawrence was both a leisure activity and a statement of wealth.

Final Disposition

Today, the 1927 Cabin Cruiser rests submerged off Wolfe Island, silently preserving the memory of an era defined by luxury and innovation in recreational boating. Though largely undocumented, the wreck is a significant find for divers and maritime historians interested in early 20th-century vessel design and craftsmanship. The wooden construction may have deteriorated over the years, but it likely retains elements that reflect the original elegance of this type of vessel.

Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) & Advisories

No specific Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) are associated with this wreck. However, divers and boaters should exercise caution around Wolfe Island due to potential navigational hazards from submerged wrecks.

Located By & Date

This wreck has likely been known to local divers and maritime enthusiasts for some time. A formal, detailed exploration may still be pending, with potential insights to be gained from further documentation.

Current Condition & Accessibility

While the current condition of the wreck is uncertain, it is likely in a deteriorated state due to its wooden construction and nearly a century underwater. The site is accessible to recreational divers, particularly those interested in historical shipwrecks. Wolfe Island’s shallow waters provide an attractive setting for diving, though conditions may vary based on Visibility and current strength.

Resources & Links

• Maritime History of the Great Lakes Website: A comprehensive resource for records and historical context on vessels of the Great Lakes, including early recreational cruisers.

Conclusion

The 1927 Cabin Cruiser serves as a poignant reminder of early 20th-century luxury boating along the St. Lawrence River. Its remains offer a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle and craftsmanship of the Roaring Twenties, inviting exploration and documentation by those intrigued by the era’s maritime heritage.

Keywords: 1927 Cabin Cruiser, Wolfe Island, St. Lawrence River, shipwreck, luxury boating, early 20th century, recreational vessel, maritime history, Great Lakes