For more than four decades, underwater explorer David Trotter and the Undersea Research Associates (URA) team have been at the forefront of shipwreck exploration in the Great Lakes. Through meticulous historical research, cutting-edge technology, and thousands of hours on the water, they have discovered and documented some of Lake Huron’s most significant shipwrecks.
Each discovery tells a unique story of commerce, navigation, and the challenges faced by mariners on the Great Lakes. From wooden schooners and steamers to steel freighters, these wrecks provide an extraordinary glimpse into the region’s rich maritime heritage while serving as underwater time capsules preserved by the cold, fresh waters of the Great Lakes.
The discoveries featured here represent decades of dedication, teamwork, and a commitment to preserving history. Many of these shipwrecks have expanded our understanding of Great Lakes maritime history, solved long-standing mysteries, and contributed to the protection and interpretation of Michigan’s underwater cultural resources.
Explore the list below to learn about each shipwreck, its history, the circumstances of its loss, and the remarkable story behind its discovery by David Trotter and the URA team.
