Upper Michigan Underwater Diving
Preserves
Shipwrecks and Artifacts
Frigid water temperatures have preserved the ships
that have fallen victim to the wrath of the Lake
Superior. Shipwrecks are accessible to divers at five
underwater preserves in the Upper Peninsula: the Straits of
Mackinac, Whitefish Point, Alger, Marquette and Keweenaw
Underwater Preserves.
Michigan's underwater preserves protect some of the
region's most sensitive underwater resources. Shipwrecks and
natural features attract skin and scuba divers from across
the U.S. They come to explore these shipwrecks and see how
the cold, fresh water of the Great Lakes preserves history.
Michigan's underwater preserve system was created in 1980
through legislation supported by Michigan sport
divers.
Since then divers have ensured that their sport will
remain a high-quality activity with stiff penalties for
illegal removal or alteration of artifacts. It is a felony
to remove or disturb artifacts in the Great Lakes. Those
caught removing portholes, anchors, anchor chain, or other
"souvenirs" will have their boats, cars, and equipment
confiscated and will face up to two years imprisonment and
stiff fines. Divers who have information about the theft of
artifacts can report violations to the Michigan Department
of Natural Resources by calling (800) 292-7800.
The result of these laws is the finest sport diving in
the Midwest. Many sport divers are surprised to find
shipwrecks so well preserved. Small items, such as ceramic
cups, tools, silverware, ornaments, and other artifacts
often remain where they were discovered many years before.
Most of the popular dive sites are buoyed in the
summer by volunteers of the Michigan Underwater Preserve
Council, Inc., a private, non profit organization dedicated
to development of the preserves. Many preserves also offer
exceptional shore-access diving. Be prepared for cool water.
Although surface temperatures may reach 65 degrees or more
in midsummer, temperatures below 40 feet may be
substantially less. Most Great Lakes divers use full wet
suits.
After diving in any of Michigan's underwater
preserves, you may find yourself wanting to try them all!
Each offers a unique experience.
Alger -
AuSable
Detour
Passage
Keweenaw
Straits
of Mackinac
Whitefish
Point
Back to Shipwreck Page
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Page
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Traveler
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