The Providence Island Canal Sloop is an 1862-class sailing canal boat. At 86-feet long and 14-feet wide, the Providence Island Canal Sloop is of the same class of vessels as the General Butler and the OJ Walker, the main difference being that this vessel carried a single mast where General Butler and OJ Walker were schooner rigged with two masts.
The name and exact details of the sinking of the Providence Island Canal sloop are unknown. Despite extensive historical research we have been unable to find additional information about this wreck site or the identification of this vessel.
The condition of this canal boat wreck is exceptional, the vessel is virtually intact. The sloop’s single mast has fallen off to the port side of the vessel, though the heel of the mast rests adjacent to the mast tabernacle mounted on deck. The tabernacle allowed the mast to be easily lowered before the boat entered the canal system. On the foredeck a sizable grapnel anchor is present, seemingly ready to be deployed (please do not disturb). The vessel sank unexpectedly while carrying a cargo of coal, some of which is visible through the open cargo hatch just aft of the mast tabernacle. The stern cabin is also intact including the roof. This area is not to be penetrated as it is full of silt and presents considerable risk of entrapment.
Features of Interest
- Wreck is 86’ long, 14’ wide.
- Bow still contains a windlass, and grapnel anchor.
- Portions of the sloop’s rig are located off the port side including the boom with leather coated jaws.
- Dead eyes are present on both starboard and port rails which once supported the standing rigging for the vessel.
- Original hull paint is still visible in a number of locations.
Diving Information
- Experience level: Advanced
- Depth of water: 85’+
- Underwater lights are necessary, always bring a backup
- Water temperatures remain cold year around, wear sufficient thermal protection
- Buoyancy should be carefully controlled to avoid damaging this intact shipwreck
- NO PENETRATION
- MOVING OR REMOVAL OF ARTIFACTS IS ILLEGAL
Location
- Latitude: 44°35’56.39″N
- Longitude: 73°21’29.11″W
- The wreck lies approximately ½ mile south of Providence Island