If the trend continues, over the next century 14 wrecks will be explored by archaeologists, about five will be frequented by sport divers, and 1,581 known wrecks will disappear from sight and memory. But there is yet another problem with the strict preservationist's philosophy. Throughout history, the private sector has discovered the majority of sunken ships, not governments or archaeologists. He and his staff of researchers, historians, attorneys, divers and captains utilized millions of dollars worth of equipment and spent 14 years searching for the ship before discovering the wreck site. As with most business endeavors, the capital was provided by investors and stockholders.
Preservationists believe private sector salvage is a sin beyond belief.
The U.S. District Court readily understood this. Judge William 0. It would amaze and surprise most citizens of this country, when their dream, at the greatest costs, was realized, that agents of respective governments would, on the most flimsy grounds, lay claim to the treasure. But again, governmental actions have proven diametrically opposite. Gary Gentile was repeatedly denied permission to photograph the wreck of the Monitor.