If you’re a wreck diver or have an interest in becoming one, you’ll appreciate the 21st Annual Shipwrecks Symposium. Hosted by The Niagara Divers’ Association, this annual event features a number of multimedia presentations by a variety of speakers, plus meet and greet opportunities. Lunch, refreshments, and the opportunity to win door prizes is included with the cost of admission.
21st Annual Shipwrecks Symposium – When
For the past 17 years, this exciting event has been held in spring, just as the Great Lakes diving season is getting underway. This year, the fun begins at 9:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 2nd. The Shipwreck Symposium comes to a conclusion at 5:00 p.m., leaving participants with plenty of time to relax and enjoy the evening.
21st Annual Shipwrecks Symposium – Where
This event is once again being held at Centennial High School in Welland, Ontario, about an hour from Toronto and Hamilton, and a little over 30 minutes from Lewiston, Buffalo, Fort Erie, and Niagara Falls, New York. Detailed driving instructions are available on the event’s page.
21st Annual Shipwrecks Symposium – Event Highlights
For 2015, the Annual Shipwrecks Symposium features a selection of eight full length presentations by internationally renowned experts. Geoff Barker and Linda Preston will discuss the Shipwrecks of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Tony Gramer will provide a presentation covering the loss of the schooner William Young, and Walter Lewis will present “Survivors: The Great Storm of 1913.”
Kevin Magee will provide a presentation on the Wreck of the Schooner Plymouth, Jonathan Moore will discuss the discovery of the HMS Erebus, and Brian Nadwidny will be presenting on the USAT Brig. Gen. Zalinski. Finally, Ralph Wilbanks will provide a dual presentation titled “D-Day’s Sunken Secrets and H.L. Hunley, the World’s First Successful Attack Submarine.”
Between primary presentations, there will be several 5-minute “shorts” covering newly discovered wrecks. Shipwreck expert Ric Mixter will be serving as Master of Ceremonies. You might recognize him from appearances on PBS, the Outdoor Channel, the Discovery Channel, and the History Channel.
21st Annual Shipwrecks Symposium – Places to Stay and Things to See
There are several comfortable hotels in Welland, and even more in neighboring cities. While in Welland, you might want to check out the Welland Canal, which is part of the historic St. Lawrence Seaway Canal system. Lined by manicured walkways, beautiful gardens, sculptures, and other points of interest, the old canal provides a unique look at the area’s history. If you’re lucky, you might get the opportunity to see ships clearing the locks.
The Welland Museum offers a number of interesting exhibits. For a mere three dollars, you can get a look at local artifacts, photographs, and much, much more. Special kids’ and families’ programs are included in the event anyone in your group is not interested in attending the symposium.
Numerous shopping venues and a variety of restaurants are available around Welland.