Who we are

 Goals and objectives.

The Association is dedicated to the study, promotion and dissemination of information relating to contemporary shipwrecks.

By contemporary shipwrecks, we mean the remains of vessels built with metal hulls and/or powered by mechanical propulsion. These are the wrecks commonly explored by recreational divers.

Background.

Shipwrecks are of interest to a wide audience, both divers and non-divers. Numerous groups and associations record wrecks—generally within a specific geographical area—and publish the results of their research. These publications usually provide information about the vessel, the circumstances of its sinking, the consequences of the loss, and a description of the site as it appears today, often accompanied by illustrations such as drawings and photographs. However, the technological aspects of the wrecks are often presented only briefly, mainly to simplify the discussion.

More detailed studies are carried out through archaeological operations approved—and frequently funded—by the DRASSM (Department of Underwater and Subaquatic Archaeological Research), which has shown increasing interest in this maritime heritage. The results of these investigations are recorded in mandatory excavation reports. These reports are considerably more technical and detailed than the publications generally available, but they are not widely distributed. Only a summary appears in the DRASSM Scientific Bulletin, which covers all underwater archaeological operations conducted during a given year. Since publication of the bulletin is irregular, much of this valuable research remains largely unknown to other researchers and enthusiasts.

In addition, many divers, researchers, historians and historians of science possess valuable documentation and information that has never been published.

The GEREC is intended for divers, researchers, historians, and anyone interested in underwater cultural heritage from both a historical and technological perspective.

As a club affiliated with the French Federation of Underwater Studies and Sports (FFESSM), GEREC organises federal underwater archaeology training courses, introductory and research field sessions on submerged sites, as well as cultural visits to museums, exhibitions and locations related to maritime history, technology and heritage.

Objectives.

The aim of GEREC is to encourage the exchange and dissemination of information, to foster contacts between researchers and enthusiasts, and to promote the study of contemporary shipwrecks.

GEREC makes available the results of work carried out by its members, whether through archaeological operations or heritage studies. These presentations are accessible to the general public while maintaining high standards of scientific accuracy and rigour.

The association also provides the essential knowledge required to better understand naval architecture and to identify and interpret the structures that survive on wreck sites. Although information on ancient ships and large wooden sailing vessels is relatively easy to find, documentation on steam engines, boilers and riveted steel hulls remains scarce. GEREC brings together and synthesises information scattered throughout technical publications dating from the period when these technologies were first introduced. These works can be consulted in specialist libraries or obtained through second-hand booksellers.

The association also publishes technical fact sheets covering the principal elements of naval architecture and ship equipment to assist enthusiasts in their research.

An inventory of the most significant shipwrecks is being compiled and displayed through a Geographic Information System (GIS).

The website also provides documentary resources including images of wrecks, museums and exhibitions, together with bibliographical references.