

The William H. Barnum is a shipwreck located in the Straits of Mackinac. This freshwater site sits at depths ranging from 18 to 23 metres, with an average depth of 20 metres. Access is by boat only, as the wreck lies approximately 8,851 metres from the nearest shore. Divers should be prepared for cold water conditions, with temperatures fluctuating between 1 and 15 degrees Celsius throughout the year; bottom temperatures often remain between 4 and 6 degrees Celsius even in August. Visibility is variable, ranging from 1 to 24 metres. Hazards include the overhead environment of the wreck, potential for entanglement, deep water, and low visibility.
45.72770, -84.58380
Moorings are available from late-May to mid-September to make for easier location and safer diving.
The site is located 5.5 miles southeast of the Mackinac Bridge in Lake Huron.
Expected in this region. No sightings logged here yet.
Depth
18-23m
Visibility
1-24m
Entry
Boat
Boat required
Water Temp
1-15°C
Current
Mild
Best Time
May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
No, this site is not suitable for beginners due to the depth, overhead environment, and cold water conditions.
The wreck lies at depths between 18 and 23 metres, with an average depth of 20 metres.
This is a boat dive; the site is located over 8 kilometres from the nearest shore.
Divers must manage risks associated with cold water, deep diving, potential entanglement, low visibility, and the overhead environment of the wreck.
Diving at William H. Barnum in St. Ignace requires the following certifications: Open Water, Advanced, Wreck. Always dive within your training limits.
A drysuit recommended is recommended for diving at William H. Barnum in St. Ignace. Water temperatures range from 1°C to 15°C.
The best months to visit William H. Barnum in St. Ignace are May, June, July, August, and September. Conditions outside these months can still be good but are less predictable.
William H. Barnum in St. Ignace typically has mild currents that most divers can handle comfortably.
Visibility at William H. Barnum in St. Ignace typically ranges from 1 metres to 24 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.