The Rend is by far the most feature rich wreck that can be reached by paddle. The wreck sits in 12’-18’ of water. However, this wreck has more of it’s structure intact than most. Parts of the ship come off the bottom 4’-6’ making it very visible from the surface. There is much to explore for those looking to free dive the wreck but also lots to see for those snorkelers who are more comfortable staying on the surface.

Conditions play a big role in the water clarity and visibility. Strong winds out of the South or Southeast can churn up the lake bottom making it very hard to see. Sometimes the effects from these conditions can last for a day or two after the winds have changed. You can get a pretty good idea of the water clarity by checking the beaches in Alpena.

This wreck is the most challenging to reach of the three. Take Ford Ave, North out of Alpena. You will take a 90 degree right turn after passing LaFarge where Ford turns into Misery Bay Rd. You will see a pull off area on the side of the road past the 90, park here. There is a somewhat worn trail to get down to the water (approx 90 yrds, could be considerably more or less depending on water levels). The Paddle to the Rend is approximately 1.05 miles SSE.

We recommend going early in the day if you would like to visit the Rend when the conditions tend to be calmer. This area can experience more varied and changing conditions than the other two wrecks. For those reasons we recommend this adventure for more intermediate to advanced paddlers.

Important Safety Considerations

Conditions; Lake Huron could be considered more “ocean” than “lake” and should be respected as such. Please pay attention to weather conditions and check forecasts before your adventure. Strong on-shore winds (SE/E) can bring in significant waves and chop. Strong off-shore winds (NW/W) can easily push paddlers and swimmers out to sea and create dangerous situations. Any winds over 10mph need to be considered as their presence will be felt. Please consider you experience, physical condition and comfort level before venturing out in the current conditions.

Equipment; The best watercraft to explore shipwrecks is s standup paddleboard. The higher vantage point makes viewing more accessible and the easy on and off are perfect for snorkeling. If you choose to use a kayak on Lake Huron only sea kayaks with sealed bulkheads or sit on top kayaks with sealed hulls should be used. Reaction or “river” kayaks are not recommended as they can sink when they take on water. If you choose to snorkel kayaks are not a good choice as even intermediate/advanced paddlers find it challenging to get in and out of a kayak in the water.