Where are shipwrecks found and why are they important?
Victoria has a wonderful underwater cultural heritage. Sunken submarines, steamships and ferries are some of the impressive wrecks to be found scattered in our waters. A silent fleet of ships also lies scuttled in deep water off Port Phillip Heads in the Ships’ Graveyard while the well preserved hulls of wooden sailing ships support spectacular marine life on the seabed. The remains of small ships and large sailing vessels also rest along our coast. Some of these sites are remarkably intact, while others are more scattered. Shipwrecks are important because they provide a wealth of historical, technical, social, archaeological and scientific information about Victoria’s maritime heritage. Many are popular diving sites and offer a unique experience to divers. Exhibitions and land-based trails make some of them accessible to others.
