Getting started

[jason32]

Hi all
I’m new to this sort of thing and have been doing some research and have found some possible leads.
I need some advice on the size of boat and equipment needed for detecting shipwrecks in about 30 meters of water, most likely buried under sand

Thanks Jason

 

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[wreckdiver1715]

Jason32, you don’t need a large boat and lots of expensive equipment to start with, unless you are independently wealthy. However, you do need knowledge and that means lots of research. You indicated that you have already done some research and that’s a good thing. Second you need to check the law in Australia or in the countries waters that the wreck is located.
Remember that when Kip Wagner discovered the 1715 fleet off the coast of Florida, he did it with a surf board, cut a hole in it and made a Plexiglas porthole. Not a lot of expense involved in this method.
Since you are being specific about 30 meter depth, I will assume that you have a target in mind, and some knowledge as to the approximate location. With that assumption, you just need to locate the wreck. This will require a relatively small boat, nothing fancy, and of course the further away from port that you go, you will need a larger boat to support extend operations at sea. Consider renting a boat for this purpose, or finding a friend with a boat, and then your expenses will be primarily for fuel cost.
A magnetometer and or a very good side scan sonar, along with a good GPS. Are the primary tools you need for locating the wreck, that and some good dive gear to verify your find. This equipment and be had for under 10K US, less the cost of the boat and fuel.
Remember that we are only talking about locating and diving on a wreck at this point. Should you locate and ID the wreck, then you move into the recovery phase of the operation, and well that’s when the expenses can climb into the hundreds of thousands of dollars very fast.

Keep us up to date on your project; we all would like to see you succeed in your search, good luck and happy hunting.

Q

 

[jason32]

Thanks for the help wreckdiver1715 I have a 16 foot boat could you or anyone recommend a brand or type of magnetometer or side scan sonar that would be good for a beginner

 

[wreckdiver1715]

Jason, follow this link to the TNet GEOPHYSICS site. You will find tons of info on equipment to help you make an informend decision on the equipment that will fit your needs and budget.

Happy Hunting

http://forum.treasurenet.com/index.php/board,17.0.html