YouTuber buys WW1 shipwreck for $400 on Facebook Marketplace

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On Facebook Marketplace, deep-sea explorer and YouTube personality Deep Wreck Diver shared that he acquired an old World War I shipwreck for a mere $400.

In the oceans worldwide, it’s likely that there are more than a few hundred, possibly even thousands, of sunken ships. However, chances are slim that anyone has ever pondered over who exactly holds the ownership rights to these underwater relics.

Typically, ownership is automatically assigned to the nearest nation (or in the U.S., the nearest state) unless you happen to have the opportunity to purchase it independently.

For YouTuber Deep Wreck Diver, that’s how things turned out, as he successfully discovered a shipwreck up for sale – an accomplishment that left quite a few individuals rather astonished.

YouTuber buys WW1 shipwreck

In January 2025, Dom Robinson, who goes by that name, shared a video detailing his acquisition and a thorough investigation of an ancient shipwreck he had obtained earlier.

As reported by the diver, he discovered a 3,300-ton, 330ft long vessel known as the ‘SS Almond Branch’ listed for sale on Facebook Marketplace at $400. Historical records indicate that this cargo ship sank off the coast of Cornwall during World War 1, and it is believed that the wreckage was purchased by its current owner in the 1970s.

Since then, the British Government has stopped selling shipwrecks directly.

As an enthusiastic admirer, I shared my experience with the BBC. Before finalizing the acquisition, I plunged into the wreckage for a closer look.

He mentioned, “I followed suit, gave the vehicle a quick inspection, let out a sigh, and intuitively recognized its nature. Diving a sunken ship is distinctive; I could feel a certain possession towards it.

Additionally, he mentioned that although he won’t make any profit from the transaction, there’s a specific artifact he’s hoping to discover during another dive to the wreckage.

If anyone discovers the bell, they ought to inform the Receiver of Wreck, who in turn will consult me about whether I wish to retain it or not.

“And, if they find the bell, then obviously, hands off my bell.”

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2025-04-28 23:49