The wonders of salvage

The text surveys maritime salvage practice, explaining how wrecks and cargo are located, examined, patched, and refloated using diving, cofferdams, pumps, wire frameworks, and controlled explosions. It pairs clear technical descriptions with illustrated case studies that show varied challenges such as groundings, capsizes, torpedo damage, and beachings. Chapters describe step-by-step engineering solutions for righting ships, constructing concrete and steel patches, and recovering valuables from the sea-bed. Throughout, attention is given to the practical organization, hazards, and inventive problem-solving that underpin successful salvage operations.