Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary

Explore hundreds of shipwrecks in this freshwater sanctuary!

Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary (TBNMS) protects a nationally significant collection of historic shipwrecks in Lake Huron, off the northeast coast of Michigan. Through research, education,and community involvement, the sanctuary works to ensure future generations can enjoy these underwater treasures. Within this 4,300 square-mile marine protected area, the cold, fresh water preserves these irreplaceable relics from our past. The shipwreck sites offer opportunities for diving, kayaking, paddling, and snorkeling. Additionally, a glass bottom boat offers tours over some of the wrecks within Thunder Bay. Plan ahead to explore “Shipwreck Alley” by visiting the website www.ThunderBay.NOAA.gov or the Great Lakes Maritime Heritage Center in downtown Alpena.

The Great Lakes Maritime Heritage Center (GLMHC) serves as the visitor center for the sanctuary, a maritime museum, and the headquarters for TBNMS researchers, protection specialists, traveling scientists, filmmakers and educational outreach that spans the state of Michigan and beyond. With over 10,000 square-feet of exhibits, always free and open seven days a week, the center offers an engaging dive into maritime history, shipwreck stories, and artifacts brought back from the depths of Lake Huron. Visitors can also walk the deck of a life-sized schooner battling a treacherous Great Lakes November gale, followed by a trip into the lake to explore a shipwreck - all without getting wet or having to sign a waiver! The GLMHC also offers special event space, meeting rooms, a digital theater, and a green roof-deck overlooking the Thunder Bay River.

Just outside of the center, the Great Lakes Maritime Heritage Trail connects visitors to Lake Huron’s fascinating past. This walking trail, lined with more than a dozen interpretive signs, runs along theThunder Bay River and makes for a great walk just over a mile. The trail has also expanded into Iosco, Alcona, Presque Isle, and Cheboygan counties. You can find an interactive map of the trail on the TBNMS website. 

PLAN TO GET INTO YOUR SANCTUARY

HAVE AN HOUR? Visit the Great Lakes Maritime Heritage Center

NEED A WALKING BREAK? Give yourself an hour to walk the Great Lakes Maritime Heritage Trail along the Thunder Bay River

HAVE A FEW HOURS? Visit alpenashipwrecktours.com to book a boat ride

STAYING LONGER? Check out the website to find shallow shipwrecks to paddle and snorkel

BOATING? More than 50 mooring buoys are put out each year to help the public find shipwrecks faster and safely anchor to them - the website has an interactive page with coordinates and more information

Open: Year Round, Monday through Saturday, 10 AM to 4 PM; Restrooms Available, Handicap Accessible

500 W Fletcher Street, Alpena, MI 49707

GPS: 45.06728, -83.433