News
Divers discover wreck of Tsar’s ‘Shark’ submarine beneath the Baltic Sea
A wreck found by divers at the bottom of the Baltic Sea has been identified as the legendary Tsarist-era Russian submarine known as ‘The Shark’, a vessel which vanished during the First World War.
Commissioned in 1911, the 400-ton craft was the largest in the Tsar’s fleet and is believed to be the first submarine in the world that could fire a volley of several torpedoes. It was sent on a mission in 1915 with 35 sailors aboard but never returned to port.
Estonian diver Tanel Urm and his buddy found the wreck 30 yards below the surface while exploring a series of known but unidentified objects on the floor of the Baltic Sea off Estonia last month.
The Estonian team were then joined by Russian and Latvian divers for a fresh expedition after hearing the sub had three distinctive propellers and a blown-off nose cone.
“That made us think it could be the famous Akula [Shark], but we weren’t sure until we made the dive,” said diver Konstantin Bogdanov. “Part of the outer shell of the craft at the stern was still intact and suddenly we could see, through the shells stuck to the hull, the word ‘Akula’ in white lettering.”
The smashed nose of The Shark, and the fact that an external compass on the conning tower was not stowed, suggest the submarine was destroyed on the surface when it hit a German mine. It would have sunk quickly because it had only one compartment stretching the length of the sub. The divers could not swim inside the wreck because of the damage.
Mr Bogdanov said he had informed Russia’s defence ministry of the discovery and he hoped the submarine would be declared a “brothers’ grave” – the final resting place of the men who perished inside.
“There is no point in raising the sub,” he said. “I hope we can put a memorial plaque in front and make it a place that can be visited on remembrance days or for educational trips for divers.”
Source: www.telegraph.co.uk
Marine Life & Conservation
Shark Trust Launches New Podcast
The Shark Trust has launched their new podcast. Delve behind the scenes and gain exclusive insights in the world of shark and ray conservation on The Shark Trust Podcast. Out Now!
Join the Shark Trust on this journey as they explore the diverse world of sharks. Hear from experts from different backgrounds and learn how you can become a part of the global effort to protect these vital species.
Whether you’re a seasoned shark expert or just dipping your toes beneath the surface, this podcast offers something for everyone!
In the first series you will hear from the Shark Trust team. Shark Trust Patrons, Monty Halls, Miranda Krestovnikoff and Simon Rogerson. Divers with a passion for sharks. And some of the Oceanic 31 artists.
New episodes released every two weeks on all major podcast platforms and watch full video versions on the Shark Trust YouTube Channel. Keep your eyes peeled for the bonus minisodes!
There are two available to dive into right now!
Episode 1: Dive beneath the waves of shark and ray conservation with Mark as he speaks with Paul Cox, CEO of the Shark Trust. Paul and Mark discuss the threats and difficulties that sharks and rays currently face in the modern world. And how the Shark Trust is working to create a better future for them!
Bonus Minisode: Join Mark at Go Diving, the UK’s biggest dive show. He interviews Shark Trust Patron, Simon Rogerson, about his diving experiences and how seeing sharks can transform your life!
For more information about the work of the Shark Trust, visit their website here.
News
Get up to 40% off Red Sea liveaboard itineraries in 2024 with Scuba Scene
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This boat comes highly recommended for shark and pelagic lovers, Tech divers, and fans of coral reefs and wrecks – a luxury yacht, friendly crew, knowledgeable guides, and delicious food.
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