Additional Coverage:
- German researchers discover dozens of shipwrecks including possible WWII steamer lost in air raid (foxnews.com)
Lake Constance Yields Treasure Trove of Shipwrecks
German researchers exploring the depths of Lake Constance have uncovered a remarkable 31 shipwrecks, including what may be a steamship sunk during a World War II air raid. The discoveries are part of the “Wrecks and Deep Sea” project, launched in 2022. Using divers and remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), the team has identified over 250 potential underwater anomalies.
So far, 186 of these anomalies have been investigated. While 155 turned out to be natural formations or discarded items like fishing gear, 31 were confirmed as shipwrecks, ranging from historical vessels to more modern sport boats.
Two particularly large metal hulls have piqued researchers’ interest. Their size and location suggest they may belong to the paddle steamers SD Friedrichshafen II, destroyed in a WWII air raid, and SD Baden, decommissioned in 1930 and eventually scuttled.
“Wrecks are far more than just lost vehicles — they are true time capsules that preserve stories and craftsmanship from long ago,” explained project research associate Alexandra Ulisch.
Among the other finds is a remarkably well-preserved cargo sailing ship, complete with mast and yard. Its deep-water resting place has shielded it from invasive quagga mussels, preserving details like bow clamps and belaying pins. Another site yielded a scattering of at least 17 wooden barrels.
The “Wrecks and Deep Sea” project is slated to continue through the summer of 2027. This exciting work echoes other recent underwater discoveries, such as the vintage car found earlier this year during an exploration of the USS Yorktown in the Pacific.