Learn to Explore and Study Wrecks of Historical and Cultural Significance
Since 2003, IANTD Expeditions has organised and conducted numerous underwater expeditions for exploration, research, and study purposes, focusing on shipwrecks of high historical value. These include iconic wrecks such as the battleship Szent Istvan (Santo Stefano) in the Adriatic, the Wilhelm Gustloff in the Baltic Sea, the battleship Regina Margherita, the hospital ship Po, the troop transport King Umberto, the destroyer Intrepido, the torpedo boat Andromeda in Albania, the submarine UC14 in the North Sea, the steamer Monrosa in the Aegean Sea, and the royal submarine Scirè in Israel.
Recently, IANTD Expeditions collaborated with CNR-IBE of Trento for the geo-positioning, survey, sampling, and dendrochronological analysis of the submerged forest of Lake Tovel (Trentino, Italy). For more details, visit: www.iantdexpeditions.it
What is IANTD Expeditions Training?
To support its exploration and research projects, IANTD organises Expeditions Training Courses, aimed at divers who wish to acquire the knowledge and skills necessary to participate in official expeditions for the exploration and study of wrecks of great historical and cultural interest.
Training Overview — What You Will Learn
The theoretical part of the IANTD Expeditions Training covers:
- Introduction to underwater archaeology and maritime history
- Classification and structure of ships and wrecks
- Basics of archival and documentary research
- Survey and measurement techniques for wreck mapping
- Nautical procedures and best practices
- Decompression stations and safety procedures during scientific dives
- Protocols for conducting underwater exploration expeditions
All theoretical lessons are conducted by highly qualified instructors and experts in the field.
Practical Training — Apply What You Learn Underwater
The practical diving sessions allow students to apply all theoretical knowledge directly underwater, forming a comprehensive and applied learning process that fits into both underwater archaeology and industrial archaeology.
One of the highlights of the course is the study and exploration of the Mohawk Deer wreck, located within the Portofino Marine Protected Area (MPA). This unique opportunity is an integral part of the Expeditions Training and offers:
- A chance to enhance the historical and cultural value of the underwater site
- Hands-on measurement, surveying, and video-photographic documentation of the wreck
- Practical exercises aimed at reconstructing the wreck’s layout and identifying significant elements of the structure and engine system, contributing to scientific and industrial archaeological studies
Official Patronage and Scientific Value
On 1 December 2021 (letter prot. 0001931), the Management Consortium of the Portofino Marine Protected Area granted official patronage to IANTD for this educational project focused on the study of the Mohawk Deer wreck. This recognition underlines the scientific importance and educational value of the training, which is also carried out in collaboration with external scientific and technical consultants.
Who Can Join?
- Divers interested in wreck exploration, underwater archaeology, and industrial archaeology
- Participants from IANTD and other qualified diving agencies
- Divers from clubs and associations wishing to extend their technical and cultural diving knowledge
To date, IANTD instructors and divers from across Italy have participated in these expeditions and training dives, contributing to real scientific research and gaining unique field experience.
Training Organisation
The logistics and diving operations for the IANTD Expeditions Training are managed by Diving Group Portofino, based in Rapallo and Santa Margherita Ligure (GE), Italy.
Contact and Enrolment
For more information or to enrol in the IANTD Expeditions Training contact us at: cecilia@dgportofino.com
Learn to dive with a purpose — explore, study, and protect underwater heritage with Diving Group Portofino and IANTD!
