Man Buys WW1 Shipwreck on Facebook: A Treasure or Trouble?
When Dom Robinson, a 53-year-old diver from Plymouth, stumbled across a remarkable find on Facebook Marketplace, he couldn’t resist. For just £300, he became the proud owner of the SS Almond Branch, a World War One shipwreck nestled off the Cornish coast. But what seems like a diver’s dream might hold more than meets the eye.
The Intriguing Process of Buying a Shipwreck
Interestingly, purchasing a shipwreck involves more than just a high bid; it requires the approval of the government’s Receiver of Wreck, ensuring that ownership is properly transferred. This aspect of maritime law intrigues experts like Jason Lowther, an associate professor specializing in environmental law. His awe stems from the idea of acquiring a shipwreck online, seeing it as both novel and perplexing.
Ownership varies significantly depending on what you truly possess: the hull, the cargo, or both. Enthusiasts must consider the multifaceted nature of titles and the complexities of historical maritime ownership.
Unraveling Ownership Rights and Responsibilities
Owning a shipwreck isn’t just about exploration and adventure; it comes with an array of responsibilities. Prof Michael Williams notes that potential liabilities, such as environmental hazards from leaking oil or cargo, are ever-present. A critical view into the unforeseen responsibilities reveals potential entanglements ranging from environmental damage to the intricacies of maritime law that even experts find fascinating.
Diving into Hazards and Unexpected Perks
While the apparent downsides lead some to question the purchase, Robinson, as a keen diver, relishes the chance to explore the depths of his newfound possession near Dodman Point. To him, the opportunity to dive the wreck adds an immersive layer of ownership and adventure, suggesting a personal connection to maritime history.
There’s something undeniably exciting about standing on the brink of the unknown, exploring not just a part of history but opening doors to underwater mysteries and relics of the past, despite the potential legal headaches.
Navigating Regulations and Salvage Rights
Aside from owning a chunk of history, there are also rules dictated by the Protection of Wrecks Act. This legislation restricts access to certain wrecks and mandates that all discoveries be reported swiftly. For owners like Robinson, adherence to these rules is crucial.
According to BBC, the management of such wrecks requires a keen eye on legal obligations that impact the ownership and exploration of these underwater giants.
Does Ownership Offer Riches or Woes?
The burgeoning market of shipwrecks stirs both excitement and caution. Plymouth Sound, with its waters teeming with undiscovered wrecks, presents a potential thrill for divers. However, the poignant insight shared by Prof Williams underscores that the law’s uncertainty makes the venture unpredictable, with both treasures and troubles lying in wait.
In this captivating story of ownership and exploration, Robinson embarks on a journey rich with historical resonance, tinged with the potential complications of maritime law. His adventure reminds us that the allure of the sea is as complex as it is captivating.
