Things to Do
Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary is full of amazing shipwrecks and exciting adventures. There are many ways to enjoy the sanctuary, from a fun day at the beach to a virtual dive, truly something for everyone!
Glass-bottom Boat Shipwreck Tours
Glass-bottom boat shipwreck tours provide opportunities to explore the shipwrecks of Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary. The crystal clear waters and large viewing wells allow you to dive the wrecks – without getting wet.
US 23 Heritage Route
US 23 Heritage Route scenic highway includes 200 coastal miles of spectacular scenic views of Lake Huron, including Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary! Use their virtual trip planner to find beaches, parks, public water access, events, and more.
Michigan History Center Museums and Historic Sites
Michigan History Center Museums and Historic Sites include Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary and its visitor center, the Great Lakes Maritime Heritage Center. The sanctuary is also one of Michigan’s Underwater Preserve sites. Find out more information about the state’s historic site and museum system. Find out more information about the state’s historic site and museum system.
Photo: Great Lakes Maritime Collection, Alpena County George Fletcher Public Library
Great Lakes Fisheries Heritage Trail
Great Lakes Fisheries Heritage Trail includes a stop at the Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary visitor center in Alpena, Michigan. Use their virtual trip planner to find active commercial fisheries, book a fishing charter, find out where to visit historic “fishtugs,” where to eat delicious Great Lakes fish, and more.
Diving
Access to sanctuary shipwrecks is not restricted. The range of depth of the shipwrecks appeals to a variety of diver skill levels. The sanctuary maintains seasonal moorings at many shipwreck sites. Available from May to September, the moorings make for safer diving and also protect shipwrecks from anchor damage. Sanctuary regulations require vessels to use moorings when present.
Snorkeling
Many sanctuary shipwrecks are shallow enough to experience whale snorkeling. If you are not a certified scuba diver you can still explore these underwater treasures by visiting the shallow shipwrecks of Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary.
Paddling
Explore Thunder Bay shipwrecks, lighthouses, islands, and miles of undeveloped coastline by canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Check out the Huron Blueways paddling guide for the best places to put in and start paddling.
Photo: Michigan Sea Grant
Fishing
Lake Huron offers plenty of opportunities for people of all ages to experience sportfishing