EXPLORATION INTRODUCTION

Regional shipwreck surveys are the cornerstone of UASBC Explorations. The surveys evaluate historic wrecks in a specific region of British Columbia, assess their current conditions, and recommend actions to ensure their preservation. The Society generally undertakes only non-destructive surveys, leaving artifacts in situ.

Our ultimate goal is to complete a province-wide inventory of underwater heritage resources. Our reports use text, maps, drawings, and photographs to describe the historic shipwreck resources found in British Columbia.

Portions or the entirety of all shipwrecks described in this site are protected under British Columbia's Amended Heritage Conservation Act (1994). The Heritage Conservation Act was designed to prevent the loss of British Columbia's cultural resources. Ship and airplane wrecks and their cargoes over two years old are protected by law. The Act expressly forbids wreck stripping or artifact collection.

Modification or destruction of these sites, artifact removal, excavation, and similar activities are criminal offences with personal fines of up to $50,000 and corporate fines of up to $2,000,000. The Heritage Conservation Act does not prevent diving, photography, or non-destructive archaeological activity on these sites.