James C. King

The James C King was originally built in 1867 at East Saginaw Michigan as a barque, but converted into a schooner in 1876. Once steam replaced sails, The King was towed behind steamers as a barge.

In 1901, the King was in tow of the W.L. Wetmore alongside the Brunette. They were travelling through Devil’s Island Channel when the heavy wind and snow reduced visibility, causing them both to run aground on Russel Reef.

Year Built

1867

Depth Range
25-90ft (8-28m)
 
Avg. Dive Time


Year Sank

1901

Water Temp

°C seasonal

Access

Boat - 2 Moorings

Type

Barkentine, Schooner, Barge

Current
Level

 Advanced, Intermediate

Safety Notes

Conditions can change quickly with wind direction. Carry a light, SMB, compass, and cold-water exposure protection. Stay clear of overhead features unless properly trained.

Safety Notes

Conditions can change quickly with wind direction. Carry a light, SMB, compass, and cold-water exposure protection. Stay clear of overhead features unless properly trained.

Trip Details

Departure

time

Surface Interval

no idea

Parking

somewhere

Best Season

Not winter

Dive Notes

After running aground on Russel Reef, the King broke up and slid deeper, now resting on a slope from 25-90 ft, the bow at the bottom and the keel at the top where she split. Around the midpoint, there is a short swimthrough and the rudder and steering gear can be found in the shallows near the anchor block of the mooring buoy, 9m east of the wreck.

Marine Life
  • Bass
  • salmon
Site Highlights

Explore the depths | Discover the wrecks
Dive Life Tobermory
PADI Tobermory
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3 Bay Street, Tobermory, Ontario

PADI FIVE STAR TRAINING CENTRE
8 Bay Street, Tobermory, Ontario

(519) 596-2363

Open Seasonally from May to October*

Early Season Hours | May 1 - June 11
Daily | 9am - 5pm

Peak Season Hours | June 12 - September 6
Daily | 7am - 7pm

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