The Shipwreck Decoder : A Handbook for Divers and Maritime Enthusiasts

Transform your understanding of the underwater world with this essential illustrated guide that helps you decode the silent stories told by submerged vessels. This insightful handbook delves into the features of shipwrecks, placing them in their rich historical context and teaching you how to interpret your observations.

Spanning different eras of maritime technology, it covers everything from hull construction and propulsion systems to armaments and navigation instruments. For divers, it enhances your experience by teaching you how to orient yourself on a wreck using engine components or understand construction methods, helping you explore more confidently and make better sense of every dive.

For maritime enthusiasts, the book deeply explores marine engineering, historical timelines of technology, and the evolution of ship design and equipment—from ancient vessels to Cold War era ships. The knowledge you gain will significantly enhance your appreciation of dives, maps, charts, logs, museum displays, and even documentaries. Featuring 400+ original illustrations, it serves as both a practical guide and reference book, and a primer for understanding what to look for and how to interpret findings.

Note: The revised 2026 reprint incorporates technical corrections to the original 2025 text. Owners of the original printing can download a free Errata/Updates list at https://www.divedup.com/updates/shipwreck-decoder