Ireland: M/V Seabed Worker to Recover Silver Cargoes from Two Shipwrecks

Odyssey Marine Exploration, pioneers in the field of deep-ocean exploration, announced that the M/V Seabed Worker has departed port and is on its way to begin operations to recover the anticipated silver cargoes from the SS Gairsoppa and SS Mantola shipwrecks.

Historical records indicate the Gairsoppa was carrying up to seven million ounces of silver and the Mantola was carrying approximately 600,000 ounces of silver when each sank. Odyssey discovered both shipwrecks in Q3 2011 and conducted a series of reconnaissance dives to both sites in March and April 2012.

Both the Gairsoppa and Mantola projects are being conducted under contract with the UK Department for Transport. Under these contracts, which follow standard commercial practices, Odyssey will retain 80% of the net salved value of the cargoes after recovery of expenses. Both merchant ships were torpedoed by German submarines, the Gairsoppa during WWII and the Mantola during WWI. At that time, the UK government insured privately owned cargo under their War Risk Insurance program.

Odyssey has chartered Swire Seabed’s 291-foot Seabed Worker for this recovery operation. The Seabed Worker is equipped with advanced deep-ocean capabilities, including the specialized tools necessary to salvage modern steel wrecks, such as redundant deep ROV systems and a 100-ton active heave compensated crane. Odyssey has also acquired advanced specialty tooling for the project that will provide exceptional flexibility in accessing the bullion.

“Modern steel wrecks such as Gairsoppa and Mantola require an advanced set of tools capable of surgically cutting through steel decks and removing bullion. After stringent review of available capabilities, we believe Seabed Worker is perfect for these projects. The ship has the ability to carry up to 300 tons of cargo below her decks. With the potential of over 240 tons of silver that may be brought up from both sites, we’re confident that we’ve brought together the right team, the tools and transport features necessary to make this a secure and successful operation,” said Mark Gordon, Odyssey COO & President. “We also expect to continue utilizing our own ship Odyssey Explorer for archaeological operations on HMS Victory in the English Channel.”

Swire Seabed AS represents experience and ultra modern equipment for deep waters in the subsea industry. The Company provides high quality services within Inspection, Maintenance & Repair, Construction Support and Subsea Decommissioning. In addition Seabed has expertise, experience and special equipment for deep sea wreck salvage. Seabed operates worldwide with the two vessels Seabed Worker and Seabed Prince.

Seabed Worker is an 88 m Multi Purpose Support Vessel. As a standard spread the vessel has accommodation for 66 people, Class 2 DP System, 650 m2 deck area, Voith Schneider propulsion with active roll stabilization, active heave compensated 100 Te offshore crane, a Perry Slingsby 4000 m XLX ROV and a Schilling HD 5000m (moonpol) ROV. For the salvage operations in 2012 the Seabed Worker is also fitted with specialized equipment.

Odyssey Marine Exploration, Inc. is engaged in deep-ocean exploration using innovative methods and state-of-the-art technology. The Company is a world leader in shipwreck exploration, conducting extensive search and archaeological recovery operations on deep-ocean shipwrecks around the world. Odyssey also has a minority ownership stake in Neptune Minerals, a company focused on discovering and commercializing high-value mineral deposits from the ocean floor. Odyssey also provides contracting services, including proprietary deep-ocean expertise and equipment, to governments and companies around the world.

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Subsea World News Staff, May 31, 2012;