Island-built boat launches deep sea drone to reveal Lake Superior’s secret abyss

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Island-built boat launches deep sea drone to reveal Lake Superior’s secret abyss

Ontario filmmaker Yvonne Drebert won a National Geographic award for capturing rare deepwater ecosystems at Lake Superior's deepest point using a robotic drone and a Manitoulin-built boat.

Expositor Staff

Jul 08, 2026 - 4 min read

Zach and Kyle Melnick with their custom Henley Boat which was outfitted to record the depths of Lake Superior.

Island-built boat launches deep sea drone to reveal Lake Superior’s secret abyss — Zach and Kyle Melnick with their custom Henley Boat which was outfitted to record the depths of Lake Superior.

Ontario filmmaker wins prestigious National Geographic award

LAKE SUPERIOR—There is a pitch-black trench hidden 400 metres below the surface of Lake Superior. Thanks to an Ontario filmmaking team, sailing in a vessel custom-built by Henley Boats of Manitowaning, its secrets have been revealed. The expedition to Lake Superior’s depths also earned one of its leads a top global exploration honour.

Yvonne Drebert, co-founder of Inspired Planet Productions, has been named a recipient of the 2026 National Geographic Wayfinder Award. The accolade recognizes her groundbreaking use of robotic technology to document “Superior Maximus,” the deepest known point in the Great Lakes. She is one of only 15 people around the world to receive the award.

“Though their work spans fields as diverse as continental rifting and wildlife safety on highways and railways, these visionary leaders are united by boundless curiosity and an active commitment to inspiring people to care about the world around them,” said Alex Moen, the Society’s chief explorer engagement officer. “We are deeply honored to welcome them to our extraordinary community of National Geographic Explorers, where their insight, courage and purpose will continue to transcend the limits of what’s possible.”