Q&A · 2:55:13-2:55:35

Finding a naval wreck in deep water

Deep-ocean wreck searches begin with a suitable survey platform and sensors capable of locating the target before any dive.

Question

How difficult is it to find a wreck twenty miles offshore in two thousand feet of water?

Short answer

It is a demanding search that requires an appropriate support vessel and effective imaging sonar.

Notes

Deep water and a broad search area make even a historically documented loss difficult to locate. The expedition first needs a vessel able to conduct controlled survey work and sonar capable of resolving useful targets on the seabed.