The Straits of Mackinac Shipwreck Preserve is a 148-square-mile (380 km²) protected area located at the northern tip of Michigan’s Lower Peninsula, encompassing the confluence of Lake Michigan and Lake Huron. Established in 1983, the preserve safeguards numerous shipwrecks that reflect the region’s rich maritime history.
Geographical Scope
The preserve spans from Wilderness State Park to the Cheboygan area, including most of the South Channel and extending to the northern edge of Mackinac Island. It is bisected by the iconic Mackinac Bridge and includes waters offshore from Mackinaw City and St. Ignace.
Historical Significance
The Straits of Mackinac have long been a critical maritime corridor, facilitating trade and transportation between the Great Lakes. However, the area’s rocky shoals, unpredictable weather, and strong currents have contributed to numerous shipwrecks over the centuries. The preserve protects these underwater cultural resources, offering insights into the region’s nautical heritage.
Notable Shipwrecks
The preserve contains at least eleven identified diveable wrecks, with more just outside the official boundaries. There are also a number of shallow sites suitable for snorkeling and kayak visits.
Diving and Exploration
The Straits of Mackinac Shipwreck Preserve is a popular destination for divers of varying skill levels. The Straits of Mackinac Shipwreck Preserve Association maintains seasonal moorings on major dive sites, typically from late May to mid-September, to facilitate access and protect the wrecks from anchor damage.
Visitor Information
The preserve is accessible from several nearby communities, including Mackinaw City, St. Ignace, and Mackinac Island, all of which offer amenities such as lodging, restaurants, and dive shops. The Straits of Mackinac Shipwreck Museum, located at the Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse in Mackinaw City, provides exhibits and artifacts related to the area’s maritime history.
Preservation Efforts
The Straits of Mackinac Shipwreck Preserve Association, an all-volunteer, non-profit organization, is dedicated to promoting diver safety, preserving underwater resources, and educating the public about the region’s maritime heritage.
For more detailed information, visit the Straits of Mackinac Shipwreck Preserve’s official website.