Islander

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This sidewheel steamer was built in Rochester, N.Y. in 1871 and launched as James H. Kelly later changed to John Thorn. The Islander measured 125 ft. x 20 ft. x 7 ft. and weighed 118 gross tons. As well as a regular mail carrier between Clayton and Alexandria Bay, the Islander began island and river tours on July 31, 1893. The Islander burnt on Sept. 16, 1909 while at dock at Alexandria Bay. Since the tragedy the Islander has become a favorite dive site for many divers.

The Islander is located just off the shoreline of Alexandria Bay. She is angled slightly upstream with a very slight current, which makes this a very pleasurable dive. The stern is in 15 ft. of water with the bow in 60 ft.. The best access to the wreck is to park in the town parking lot in front of the pavilion, just west of the hospital.

 Dive site description
 Object description
 Lake / river  St. Lawrence River  Official name  Islander
 GPS Coordinates  n/a  Also known as  James H. Kelly /
John Thorn
 Access  Shore  Type  side-wheeler
 Description  Shipwreck  Material  Wood and steel
 Min. / max. depth  15-60 ft  Propulsion  Steam
 Visibility  20-25 ft  Cargo  n/a
 Current  1-2 knots  Built by / at  n/a
 Level  Advanced  Built / lauch date  1871
 Thermocline  n/a  Sunk / flooded  September 15th, 1909
 Bottom type  Silt  Dimensions  125 ft x 20 ft x 7 ft
 Boat traffic  n/a  Position  Starboard side (Upright)
 Hazards  n/a