ABSTRACT:This paper presents the results from an underwater recording of the stern part of a contemporary cargo-ship wreck. The aim of this survey was to create 3D representations of this wreck mainly for recreational diving purposes. The key points of this paper are: a) the implementation of the underwater recording at a diving site; b) the reconstruction of a 3d model from data that have been captured by recreational divers; and c) the development of a set of products to be used by the general public for the ex situ presentation or for the in situ navigation. The idea behind this project is to define a simple and low cost procedure for the surveying, modeling and 3D representation of a diving site. The perspective of our team is to repeat the proposed methodology for the documentation and the promotion of other diving sites with cultural features, as well as to train recreational divers in underwater surveying procedures towards public awareness and community engagement in the maritime heritage.

Abstract:In the field of underwater survey, there is a variety of methods which differ from each other in terms of the operating environment and the purpose that each method is used. Hence, some of the state-of-the-art methods, that have many applications in the various scientific fields nowadays, are introduced in this paper. Additionally, the application of the procedures for an underwater survey in shallow depths is analyzed in accordance with the training standards of the PADI Underwater Survey Diver distinctive specialty. The main goal is to demonstrate not only the theoretical background of underwater surveys but also their operational issues, in order to facilitate the development of knowledge and skills during a training course. Finally, a case study for the recording and 3D modeling of the seabeds' morphology in shallow water is presented as it has been organized and accomplished by the participants of such a training course. By this way, it is expected that the reader will understand explicitly the application of the procedures prior, during and after the dive for an underwater survey in shallow depths.