Diving naval wrecks and protecting war graves

What permissions and protections apply when diving a naval wreck?

Divers should contact the responsible government, especially for a registered war grave, both to learn the legal rules and to help monitor safety, damage, and looting.

The practical first step is to identify and contact the government responsible for the wreck rather than assume open access. Registered war graves carry stronger protection, and authorities may request images that help monitor deterioration or scavenging at sites such as Prince of Wales and Repulse.