Rusting hulks rise from the mud here at the Staten Island Boat Graveyard. This eerie site is also called the Witte Marine Scrap Yard. It’s also known as the Arthur Kill Boat Yard or the Tugboat Graveyard.
Officially, this is the Donjon Iron and Metal Scrap Processing Facility. Imagine a place where old boats go to die within New York City limits. That’s this boat graveyard.
Founded in the 1930s by John J. Witte, this scrapyard is like a car salvage yard. Parts from old boats are salvaged and sold. Many vessels have sunk. They sit partially submerged in the murky water awaiting dismantling.
The original intent was to harvest valuable parts. The shipbreakers couldn’t keep up with the influx of boats. It became a dumping ground. Now, some ships are left to rot in the tidal waters.
In 2010, about 100 ships and boats were here. The peak was around 400 vessels. This accidental marine museum is hazardous. Notable vessels include the USS PC-1264. This was a World War II submarine chaser. Also here was the Abram S. Hewitt. It was a New York City Fire Department fireboat.
Another notable ship was the USS YOG-64. It is an ex-Navy gas tanker. It was near the Bikini Atoll during nuclear weapons tests in 1948.
Access to the Staten Island Boat Graveyard is restricted for safety. Rotting boats pose hazards. “No Trespassing” signs are posted. Some photographers and artists still explore the decaying ships. They use kayaks and other boats. Reaching this spot requires sturdy footwear. Be aware of potential prosecution.
The documentary “Graves of Arthur Kill” offers a glimpse into this world. Filmmakers Kane and Van Dorp filmed it in 2012. They used a rowboat to maneuver around corroding hulks. It was risky. The rowboat nearly sank after a rivet punctured it.
John J. Witte managed the scrapyard until his death in 1980. His son-in-law, Joe Coyne, took over. Now, John Witte’s son Arnold manages it.
The abandoned vessels date from the 20th century. They sit in mud until salvaged. The Abram S. Hewitt fireboat served at the 1904 General Slocum disaster. Over a thousand people died in that tragedy.
Despite “No trespassing” signs, visitors come. Marine historians explore by boat. The decaying ships attract photographers. Its eerie environment makes it a tourist attraction.
Scenes from the 2010 thriller “Salt” were filmed here. The Staten Island Boat Graveyard remains a haunting testament to maritime history.