People are experiencing the Great lakes differently. Glancing into the cold, murky, depths, they can check out underwater shipwrecks that have lasted since as early as the 18th century– and they can do it all without getting wet.
“They can peer through the glass bottom of the lady Michigan and really almost touch history” said maritime archaeologist Stephanie Gandulla. “There’s shipwrecks that down there that have been preserved in the cold freshwater for over 100 years.”
The Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary in Alpena Michigan offers glass bottom boat tours for patrons to peer into the shipwrecked vessels that lie underneath the Great Lakes.
“These are some of the best shipwrecks in the entire world,” said Sanctuary Superintendent Jeff Gray. “There’s an incredible opportunity to get out and explore the history right here in Northern Michigan.”
You can also scuba dive, kayak, or canoe to see the shipwrecks.
In the great Lake’s Maritime Heritage Center, there’s 15,000 square feet of interactive exhibits. There were about 3,000 schooners at one time running around the Great Lakes and in the center guests can get a glimpse at what the vessels were like when they were up and running.
The sanctuary has over 200 wrecked vessels and in the center, guests can learn about their history and the importance of the preservation of the boats.
Even though the sanctuary was built in the early 2000’s, the community has had a preservation system in place since the 1980’s. They also host classes and various other contests for all ages to participate throughout the year.
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Source: UpNorthLive
