Dive into our Undersea History
Designated in 2021, Wisconsin Shipwreck Coast National Marine Sanctuary provides stewardship for our nation's maritime heritage in Lake Michigan. Co-managed by NOAA and the state of Wisconsin, the sanctuary expands on the state's 30-year management of these historic sites, bringing new opportunities for research, resource protection, and education. In partnership with local communities, the sanctuary provides a national stage for promoting recreation and heritage tourism.
The 36 historic shipwreck sites within the sanctuary represent vessels that played a central role in building the nation between the 1830s and 1930s. Twenty-seven are listed on the National Register of Historic Places and research suggests that another 60 shipwrecks may yet to be discovered.
Southern Gateway to the Shipwreck Coast
Port Washington is positioned as the southern most of four Lake Michigan communities along the Shipwreck Coast National Marine Sanctuary.
Interactive Exhibit
Learn all about Wisconsin's Shipwreck Coast and the history of our water highway at the interactive exhibit at the Port Washington Historical Society, 205 N Franklin St
Audio Tour
Take a self-guided audio walking tour along the Port Washington shoreline to learn about the famous shipwrecks off our coast. From the firy Niagara to the SS Milwaukee, these shipwrecks each tell the story of our shipping history in the Great Lakes and beyond.