Straits of Mackinac Shipwreck Preserve

The Straits of Mackinac Shipwreck Preserve is a protected marine area between two lakes that contains over ninety documented shipwrecks at varying depths. Approximately fourteen marked wrecks are accessible for experienced divers, while additional sites in shallower water work for beginners.

These waters became a major shipping route starting in the 1600s, connecting two large lakes and leading to many accidents from storms and navigation challenges. The sinking of the Cedarville in 1965 after a collision remains one of the best-known disasters that occurred in these straits.

The Shipwreck Museum nearby displays scale models of historic vessels that sank in these waters, helping visitors understand how important this channel was for shipping. The exhibits connect the sunken ships with stories of the crews and passengers who traveled through these straits.

Experienced divers should check their equipment and learn about local conditions since the lakes have cold water and can have strong currents. Beginners will find shallower areas that are easier to reach and require less experience.

The lake floor displays geological formations called Mackinac Breccia with fragments of ancient shells, offering insights into the area's prehistoric past. These rocky layers provide visitors with a natural phenomenon to observe alongside the historical wrecks.