You are here

Warning message

The subscription service is currently unavailable. Please try again later.

Underwater Treasure Hunting: Staying Safe While Metal Detecting

Using a metal detector for underwater treasure hunting is fun and exciting. Before you get started with underwater metal detecting, there are some things that you should keep in mind, both for your safety and to comply with laws regarding underwater salvage.  

Safety for Scuba Diving Treasure Hunters

Many topside treasure hunters work alone, although many do choose to work with one or two partners. While solo scuba diving is now gaining acceptance, it’s important that you remember that metal detecting takes your focus off other factors. Since salvage laws in the United States require that you work at least three miles offshore, solo diving may not be practical, and it may not be safe. Professional underwater treasure hunters always work in teams. 

The same safety rules that apply to recreational divers apply to those looking for treasure. Be sure to keep your level of situational awareness high, no matter how exciting the hunt becomes. Watch out for hazardous marine life, and be sure to stay away from coral. Some other safety measures to take include the following: 

  • Dive with a flag or SMB
  • Streamline your equipment so it does not interfere with your metal detecting equipment
  • Be aware that air consumption may increase while metal detecting
  • Pay close attention to conditions including strong ocean currents, up- and down-draft currents, tides, and surface conditions 
  • Wear your headphones only while actively searching for treasure; remove them to prevent equalization problems while descending or ascending

Finally, have your buddy watch your back while metal detecting; they should listen for boats, watch for potential hazards, and keep tabs on you. Don’t be insulted when your buddy takes your best interests to heart.  

Know the Law and Follow It

Before you purchase and use an underwater metal detector it is vital that you understand the laws governing the finding and salvage of artifacts and treasure underwater. Laws vary from one nation to the next; around the United States, it is lawful to dive for and keep salvaged items so long as they are discovered three miles or more from shore. Other factors to be aware of include the following: 

  • Waters located more than three miles from the US coast are governed by Admiralty laws.
  • The shipwreck and cargo in question must be abandoned by the rightful owner. Many existing shipwrecks have not been legally abandoned and removing any artifacts is illegal in this case.
  • Coastal states have different laws that govern underwater salvage efforts. In addition, there are antiquity protection laws that must be followed, and these vary widely from one place to the next. 
  • It is never legal to take anything from a U.S. government-owned shipwreck. In addition, it is illegal to remove artifacts from vessels which are considered to be war graves, and taking anything from a protected wreck site is forbidden. 

If you plan to search for lost treasure underwater, you will need to conduct plenty of research, and it is likely that you will need to complete required paperwork when you do find treasure. Knowing and following the laws associated with underwater metal detecting will prevent you from being subject to punitive action, and staying cognizant of your surroundings will help you stay safe. 

Category:
  • Dive Training
  • Advanced Skills
Keywords: dive training, advanced diving skills, advanced divers, underwater treasure hunting, scuba diving treasure hunters, underwater treasure hunters, safety tips for underwater treasure hunters Author: Related Tags: Technical Articles