Expedition

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The first survey, will employ the best available true 3D high frequency side-scan and multibeam sonar technology to conduct an extensive hydrographic survey of the site.

1. Obtain hi-res side and multibeam scans to facilitate a complete and nuanced overview of the wreck and debris field.  

2. Confirm the type and age of the wreck and if it is considered a find of historical "archaeological" significance or not.

3. If there is one more wreck in the area corresponding to a pontoon that may have been used for towing some cargo.

Marco Polo Fisherman

Owner: Aquafish Fishing Charters

Registration: REY 037083

Beam: 4.27 meters

Length: 12.80 meters

• Dual Engine (Iveco 450 HP each)
• 2 Cabins
• 1 Bathroom
• Main Salon
• 2 VHF Radios
• 1 Garmin InReach Wireless GPS
• 1 Garmin Element Fishfinder
• 2 Chart Plotters
• Radar
• Autopilot
• Computer
• 4 Bilge Pumps
• 1 Fresh Water Pump for Use on Deck
• 1 Fresh Water Tank (capacity 200 liters)
• 2 Fuel Tanks (capacity 1000 liters each)
• Large Hold for Storing Crates, etc.
• 2 Life Rafts
• 18 Life Jackets
• 1 Exposure Suit
• Current Safety Equipment (flares, axe, etc.)
• Towing Ropes
• Anchoring Equipment
• Power Converter
• Surveillance Cameras

1. Multibeam: NORBIT i80S Winghead

2. Side Scan: KLEIN Marine  4K UHR

We anticipate that the results of this initial survey will assist in the preparation of a comprehensive forensic expedition, enhancing safety and efficiency, and ultimately leading to the definitive identification of this wreck.

Building upon the findings of the initial survey, a follow-up forensic expedition (timing TBC) will gather more detailed evidence to conclusively identify the wreck. This second survey will employ a range of specialized equipment and expert personnel for a deeper investigation:

1. Deploy a state-of-the-art work-class ROV equipped with an ABYSS Lantern Eye System to generate a precision photogrammetric 3D model of the wreck.

2. Deploy technical divers to conduct a forensic examination of the wreck and debris field and perform careful penetrations in search of potential clues to verify:

1.  Tail number 
2. Flotilla number 
3. Shipyard of manufacture
4. Type of vessel
5. Launch date
6. Sinking date
7. Cause of sinking
8. Nationality
9. Flag 
10. Origin
11. Commander
12. Officers and crew
13. Cargo manifesto 

3. Examine any potential cargo or artifacts within the wreck that may provide further historical context and yield several types of forensic evidence:

• Documentary Evidence: Like the U-534, which had over 2 tons of documents on board, the wreck may contain preserved documentation or paperwork, such as logbooks, navigation charts, or personal belongings, which could provide insights into the submarine's activities, crew, or passengers. 

• Physical Remains: The wreckage might contain human remains, such as skeletal remains or personal effects belonging to individuals who may have been on board. Forensic analysis of these remains, including DNA testing, could potentially identify specific individuals and shed light on their identities or roles.

•  Artifacts and Personal Effects: Objects recovered from the wreck, such as personal belongings, uniforms, medals, or personal items associated with Nazi officials, could provide circumstantial evidence and help establish connections and further leads.

• Submarine Equipment: Analysis of the submarine's equipment, such as communication systems, navigation instruments, or any modifications made to the vessel, could provide insights into its intended purpose and help corroborate historical accounts or suspicions.

• Structural Analysis: Forensic examination of the wreck's structure, including damage patterns, corrosion, or signs of sabotage, could provide information about the circumstances of its sinking or deliberate scuttling.

• Underwater Archaeology: The wreck itself, as a possible archaeological site, could be carefully surveyed and documented to reconstruct the events surrounding its sinking. This could involve mapping the site, documenting the distribution of artifacts, and assessing the condition of the wreck.

4. Perform environmental assessments and radiation measurements to evaluate any potential hazards posed by leaking materials or explosives.

• Environmental Effects: The wreck and surrounding area could be tested for signs of radioactive waste or the presence of toxic materials. We will take samples of surrounding water, sand and sediment to analyze for the presence of explosives, mercury and pass a Geiger detector to test for radioactivity. 

1. ABYSS Solutions ROV with Lantern Eye System