Lake Michigan holds a lot of secrets, and some can be found just below the waves. On the rocky shoreline of Door County, there’s a little bay that has a boat launch and not much else. But just offshore, something incredible lurks. The remains of a grand sailing schooner that sunk during a storm long ago is waiting to be discovered. It’s easier to see than you might imagine – here’s what you need to know about Garrett Bay, a Door County shipwreck beach.

Editor’s note: Please take heed of any private property signs before visiting. 

During the lumber boom in Wisconsin, sailing schooners helped move lumber to market and some sailed past the bluffs of Door County. The Fleetwing was one of those ships.
Google / Brad Hunter
The Fleetwing was built by the Burger Boat Company in Manitowoc. It was 135 feet long, 28 feet wide and it had two large masts.
Google / Nicole Krakow
The ship’s last trip began in 1888, across the bay from Door County. It picked up a load of lumber and began sailing for Chicago, past Door County. She never arrived, however,
Google Reviews Desiree

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While there are conflicting stories about what happened out on the lake, but the ship apparently struck a rocky beach, which broke a mast. Before it could be brought in for repairs, a gale struck, sinking the boat.
Wisconsin Shipwrecks
Fortunately, no lives were lost, but the Fleetwing came to rest in a shallow grave beneath the waves. It still rests there today, 135 years later.
Wisconsin Shipwrecks
The boat is just offshore at Garrett Bay and it's one of the easiest shipwrecks to see in Wisconsin. There’s an interpretive sign on shore and kayakers, snorkelers, and scuba divers can easily see it, even from the surface. In fact, when the ice is clear, people can even skate above the wreck!
Google / Russ

Garrett Bay is located in northern Door County, between Ellison Bay and Gills Rock. Learn more about the Fleetwing on Wisconsin Shipwrecks, a website operated by the University of Wisconsin Sea Grant and the state of Wisconsin Historical Society. One you’re back on shore, there’s a lot to more discover. Some even call this place the Cape Cod of the Midwest.

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Garrett Bay Road, Garrett Bay Rd, Liberty Grove, WI 54210, USA