Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary is a 4,300 square-mile marine protected area dedicated to protecting the Great Lakes and their rich history. The cold, fresh water of Lake Huron has preserved a nationally significant collection of nearly 200 historic shipwrecks in and around the sanctuary. Through research, education, and community involvement, the sanctuary works to ensure that future generations will continue to experience and enjoy Thunder Bay’s irreplaceable underwater treasures.

Dive in and begin your sanctuary exploration at the visitor center, the Great Lakes Maritime Heritage Center in Alpena, Michigan. Or learn about the Great Lakes and their rich history while enjoying the outdoors by visiting the Great Lakes Maritime Heritage Trail, a network of unique outdoor experiences along the sanctuary’s coastline. Visit the individual shipwrecks of Thunder Bay through recreational diving, snorkeling, and paddling at many of the shipwreck sites where the sanctuary provides seasonal mooring buoys. The buoys provide a safe means of access for visitors and also eliminates potential anchor damage to the unique and fragile underwater historic sites.