Please for the love of god don't go poking around US shipwrecks, the government says

Thu, 07/20/2023 - 08:20

A scuba diver underwater is seen in the background of this undated image of the rusted wreck of the USS Spiegel Grove in Key Largo, Florida — A scuba diver explores the shipwreck USS Spiegel Grove. Key Largo, Florida, USA.
Andre Seale/VW PICS/Universal Images Group via Getty Images

The Department of Transport warned people off exploring US shipwrecks in a notice Monday.
All US shipwrecks are under MARAD's authority, it said, no matter where or when they sunk.
Looting of old wrecks, as well as dangerous adventure tourism, has caused public alarm in recent weeks.

The Department of Transport has warned off would-be adventurers and salvage operators from exploring shipwrecks that fall under the authority of the United States.