Shipwreck Decoder

In The Shipwreck Decoder, technical diver and shipwreck explorer Ashton East delivers a highly practical guide to interpreting the remains of sunken vessels. Designed for divers and maritime enthusiasts alike, this illustrated handbook offers a compact yet comprehensive overview of ship construction, propulsion systems, and on-board equipment—spanning ancient craft to Cold War-era wrecks.

The book's central aim is to help readers understand what they are looking at underwater. Whether it's recognising steam engine components or interpreting hull design, The Shipwreck Decoder gives divers the tools to decode the silent stories of wreck sites. Each chapter connects marine engineering with historical context, using over 400 original illustrations to bring complex structures to life.

As East explains, many divers encounter wrecks with little idea of how to interpret what they see. This guide is written precisely to bridge that gap—enhancing both exploration and post-dive discussions. It also serves as an engaging primer for anyone interested in the evolution of naval architecture and maritime archaeology.

Praised by leading figures in the field, including David Gibbins and Mark Beattie-Edwards, The Shipwreck Decoder promises to become a standard reference for divers and wreck enthusiasts alike.