Divers have long enjoyed the secluded treasures of the sea, but recently sport divers have begun to focus on more monetary treasure as the popularity of amateur salvage diving through guided tours to underwater wreckages increases. Shipwrecks like the Mantola, which was torpedoed off the coast of Ireland in 1917 while carrying 20 tons of silver, are luring many divers with the possibility of finding actual sunken treasure.
Though the number of shipwrecks around the world is high, few sunken vessels hold untouched wealth available to recreational divers. Many shipwrecks are protected against treasure removal by local maritime law. For countless divers, finding artifacts like forgot pieces of vessels and remnants of old forgotten crews are enough of a reward to inspire them to spend their underwater stay time combing through small patches of sand. Dive companies are now offering treasure hunting packages to those interested in exploring the art of salvage.
To take advantage of such exciting opportunities, one does need certain permits. As with any dive experience a reputable dive company will be able to offer a completely safe and legal opportunity to search for the sunken treasures. Many sunken vessels are located at deep sea levels that are prohibitive to sport divers possessing only an open water certification.
There are numerous locations throughout the world that offer the opportunity to dive for treasure. While most trips out will not yield major discoveries, the majority first-time salvage divers find the experience rewarding and exciting in numerous other ways. Learning the history of particular wreckages along with the basic principles of sea salvage are enriching experiences that often motivate divers to renew their interest in underwater exploration. Though diving the world’s greatest locations can offer endless excitement, exploring shipwrecks and searching for buried treasure can also provide a wonderfully intriguing way to find renewed pleasure in diving locally. Plus, there is always the possibility of finding something really valuable.
My favorite diving spot: New Zealand
This blog is about snowboarding, surfing, diving, biking, and just general adventure. There's a lot to see out there and hopefully I can be some sort of guide.
Diem