R/V Hydra discovers previously unidentified shipwrecks off Aruba

ORANJESTAD — Research vessel R/V Hydra, operated by the philanthropic organization Inkfish, is conducting scientific research in Aruba’s waters.

In just four days, the team detected shipwrecks at both known and previously unidentified offshore sites. The expedition also includes Harold Kelly of the National Archaeological Museum Aruba and Oriana Wouters of IDNOVA.

Research has also been carried out at Jane Sea, the Arashi aircraft sites and the ES Antilla wreck. At Antilla, underwater images and water samples were collected to study biodiversity and possible reef-related pathogens, while a virtual 3D model of the wreck was created.

Over the next two weeks, Inkfish and MANA will continue exploring, identifying and documenting Aruba’s underwater cultural heritage.