3 man Japanese Tank, Truk Lagoon Squid Eggs

The Wrecks at Steilacoom Marina

There are at least six wrecks located out in front of the old Saltar's Point WreckSteilacoom Marina which is also known as Saltar's Point.  The murder of the marina's owner in 1988 is a sad part of pierce county history that put 13 year old Barry Massey in prison for life (without parole) and lead to the demise of the once colorful and thriving marina as well as a shattering of the owner's family. 

For wreck divers (and shore divers), there is easy access to these wrecks via Saltar's Point Park, which is just south of the Steilacoom Ferry dock at Gordon Point.  One of the wrecks (see photo, right), which was once a commercial fishing boat, is located right out in front of the picnic shelter in only 25 feet of water.   Swim south in 30 feet of water and you'll find another wreck lying against the northern most piles from the old Steilacoom Marina (see photo below).

In 60 feet of water, directly out in front of the marina, lies a cool old Chris Craft from an era that has sadly gone by.  In shallower water lies another, much more deteriorated cabin cruiser.

Steilacoom Marina Wreck

At the very south end of the marina, lying between the two deepest southern pilings are the best of the wrecks at this site.  There is a nice wood hulled tug, lying next to a newer fiberglass pleasure boat.  The tug still has its engine in place and a very nice towing bitt on the back deck.  The mast and rigging have fallen over to the side, but it is a very interesting wreck to explore.  There are also quite a few critters on these shallow wrecks, due to some decent currents that sweep through Cormorant passage between Ketron Island and Gordon Point. 

 

These shallow wrecks (most are in 30 feet of water or less), make for a very nice day of diving.  Bring a picnic with you to Saltar's Point Park and have a great day exploring these six marvelous wrecks.

 

Location:  Just south of Gordon Point in Steilacoom           Wreck Location
Depth:  30'      Hazards:  Currents and Jellyfish, occasional boat traffic.