As a Google Local Guide, I am thrilled to introduce the National Shipwreck Database of Sri Lanka, a comprehensive and meticulously curated resource intended for divers, diving centres, travellers, and anyone with a passion for maritime history and underwater exploration.
Launched in 2021, as of July 2023, this database serves as a compass to navigate the fascinating depths of Sri Lanka’s marine heritage, detailing 114 known shipwrecks and plane wrecks. Each entry within the database is enriched with vital information, including the wreck’s name, location, depth, history, and the marine life surrounding it. Furthermore, the database offers high-resolution images and comprehensive dive plans to ensure a safe and enriching dive experience.
Being a volunteer contributor to this significant project with only experience as a Google Local Guide, I am proud to say that the National Shipwreck Database of Sri Lanka is more than just a directory; it’s a vibrant, interactive platform that bridges the gap between past and present, tradition and technology.
Inspired by the Google Local Guides program, the creation of this resource was driven by a shared passion for exploration and a commitment to preserving Sri Lanka’s rich maritime history. Our collective efforts have not gone unnoticed; the database has proudly won a Merit Award at the e-Swabhimani national e-content awards in Sri Lanka.
Key Features of the Database:
Shipwreck Dashboard:
The NSDSL includes a shipwreck dashboard, a vital research tool for scholars in the field. This dashboard presents analyzed data through interactive visualizations, covering various aspects like administrative areas, access restrictions, operational periods, depths, and historical periods of shipwrecks. Specific charts offer drill-down capabilities, providing users with more detailed information. Additionally, the interactive wreck list within the dashboard allows users to access comprehensive details about specific shipwrecks, enhancing their research experience.
Maritime Archaeology Timeline:
The development of Maritime Archaeology in Sri Lanka is thoroughly chronicled through an interactive timeline spanning from the 1960s to the present. This resource serves as an invaluable tool for individuals seeking insights into the evolution of this field. Moreover, the interactive nature of the timeline makes it suitable for educational purposes, enhancing teaching and learning experiences in schools and universities.
The Story of Godawaya:
The NSDSL features a dedicated section that explores the Godawaya shipwreck, the oldest known wreck site in the country and the most ancient in the Asia-Pacific region, estimated to be 2,100 years old (The Nautical Archaeology Digital Library n.d.). To effectively convey the fascinating narrative of the Godawaya Shipwreck, the NSDSL utilizes a story map. This engaging and interactive tool captivates the interest of a diverse audience, enriching their understanding of this historically significant maritime artefact.
Biodiversity Information:
Currently, the system documents the biodiversity surrounding shipwrecks, including species names, taxonomic groups, orders, families, conservation statuses, feeding types, visiting frequencies, and the economic significance of the species. Although this information is not yet accessible to the public, plans are underway to make it publicly available. The release of this information will attract a new user demographic and contribute to the overall knowledge and understanding of the ecosystem.
Whether you are planning your next dive, researching Sri Lanka’s maritime history, or simply curious about the stories hidden beneath our waves, the National Shipwreck Database of Sri Lanka invites you to dive in and explore the treasures that await beneath the surface.