AKVA ROV contributes to 600-metre-deep shipwreck discovery

Technology used every day in the aquaculture industry has also demonstrated its value in a unique discovery off the Norwegian coast.

An ROV (Remotely Operated Vehicle) from AKVA group has been used in the investigation of an 18th-century shipwreck lying 600 metres below the surface in the Skagerrak. Using the ROV, marine archaeologists have been able to examine the wreck and recover artefacts from the seabed.

Technology with multiple applications

The ROV used in the operation was a Sub-Fighter 10K, one of Sperre's best-selling ROV models. Its typical applications include the inspection of nets, moorings and other underwater equipment used in the aquaculture industry.

ROVs are an important part of modern aquaculture, but the technology is also used for research, surveying and other subsea operations. In this case, the ROV enabled archaeologists to examine the wreck and recover artefacts with high precision at depths far beyond the reach of divers.

“This demonstrates just how versatile subsea technology can be. ROVs make it possible to work safely and accurately at great depths, whether the task involves aquaculture, research or cultural heritage,” says Åsmund Sundsvalen, General Manager of Sperre, part of AKVA group.

A unique discovery

The wreck has been named the "Porcelain Wreck" because of the cargo found on board. Artefacts recovered so far include Chinese porcelain, stemware, chandeliers, textiles and crates believed to have contained tea, herbs and medicines.

The cold, dark and low-oxygen conditions on the seabed have helped preserve both the wreck and its cargo in remarkably good condition for almost three centuries.

The investigation is being led by the Norwegian Maritime Museum, which describes the wreck as an important source of new knowledge about maritime trade and shipping between Asia and Europe during the 18th century.

Facts

• The wreck lies at a depth of around 600 metres in the Skagerrak.
• It was discovered by Espen Saastad using an ROV.
• The ship is believed to have sunk during the 18th century.
• The cargo includes Chinese porcelain, chandeliers, grain and textiles.
• In May 2026, marine archaeologists carried out investigations of the wreck and recovered selected artefacts using an ROV.
• The Norwegian Maritime Museum is leading the ongoing investigation.

Source: Directorate for Cultural Heritage (Riksantikvaren)