Types of Shipwrecks

Since ancient times, sea travel has been hazardous. Storms, collisions or warfare often resulted in the complete or partial destruction of a vessel. The remains settled on the ocean floor. Today, enthusiasts meticulously research and log shipwrecks. According to the United Nations, there are more than three million shipwrecks on the ocean floor. Once lost to the sea, shipwrecks offer a tantalizing glimpse into maritime history.

  1. Historical Shipwrecks

    • As a rule, shipwrecks more than 50 years old are classified as historical. Historical shipwrecks are time capsules. The 2001 UNESCO Convention on the Protection of the Underwater Cultural Heritage protects historical shipwrecks from pillaging and looting. Maritime archaeologists study the submerged remains of historical vessels, cargoes and human remains to understand the past. For example, the Mary Rose, recovered in 1982, has provided maritime archaeologists with valuable clues about seafaring, warfare and life in the 1500s.

    Military Shipwrecks

    • Military shipwrecks offer up tantalizing clues about past sea battles. The CSS Alabama sank off the coast of Cherbourg, France in 1864. This significant find has provided historians insight into the vessel's artillery and its operations. Military shipwrecks remain under the jurisdiction of their home government. While some nations claim military shipwrecks as spoils of war, the United States lays claim to all American military vessels lost at sea. Access to military shipwrecks is restricted, except for scientific research.

    Treasure Shipwrecks

    • Treasure ships plied the oceans during the period of European colonization. These vessels often sank in remote areas. Treasure shipwrecks are fair game for salvage operators. Under international maritime law, the original owner may lose all claims to the ship's cargo. Anyone who finds the shipwreck can place a salvage claim on it and mount a salvage operation.

    Contemporary Shipwrecks

    • Thanks to modern technological improvements in ship construction, navigation and weather forecasting, contemporary shipwrecks are on the decline. Oftentimes, vessels are deliberately sunk to spur reef growth. The Adolphus Busch was sunk off the middle Florida Keys to provide marine habitat. These shipwrecks are popular with recreational divers.

    Abandoned Shipwrecks

    • There are thousands of abandoned shipwrecks on the ocean floor. An abandoned shipwreck is defined as any shipwreck to which the owner has given up title. The most common are small fishing vessels abandoned or sunk by their owners. Under international maritime law, abandoned shipwrecks remain the property of the flag nation.