Mystery 18th Century Shipwreck Found in the Gulf of Finland

Here’s some news which will delight everybody with a love for the Age of Sail. And if you should lament the decline of figureheads as much as I do, then even more so!

Thanks to the enthusiastic divers of Finnish non-profit organisation Badewanne, the world has now one more 18th century shipwreck to study and admire. Their find is remarkable, and their documentation fascinating. Thanks to the conditions in the Gulf of Finland, the wreck of the (so-far) unknown ship is exceptionally well preserved. Just have a look at this amazing figurehead!

Figure head of unknown 18th century ship

I’ve already mentioned that I’m fond of figureheads, haven’t I …?

Figurehead of unknown 18th century ship

The wreck was found in a depth of 60m, which is probably one of the reasons why there are currently no plans to recover the ship’s bell, which might help to identify the ship. Thought to be a merchantman first, the discovery of twelve gunports on one deck, with six guns still in their original position, might hint that the ship was actually also employed in battle.

Please read all about the ship and it’s discovery here.

There’s also a gallery and a video.

As I said, the ship has so-far not been identified – but maybe one of you fellow AoS afficionados could give the Badewanne team a hint? Maybe the bell rings one with you, or you recognise the figurehead? If you should know something, please keep them posted. (And me. Because I’m curious!)

I’d like to thank Badewanne for all their efforts and finding this gem, and for giving me permission to use their photograps.

About Badewanne Oy
We are a group of divers that have been documenting shipwrecks in the Gulf of Finland for more than 15 years. We are a multi talented team with a broad skill set on underwater video, still photography, drawing & painting, 3D modeling, underwater engineering and marine sciences.