Google Seaview Allows Unprecedented Views of Sunken Ship

Search mogul Google has teamed up with the Caitlin Sea Survey, an environmental survey project partnered with the University of Queensland, to provide panoramic views of the sunken civil war vessel the Mary Celestia. The program is an extension of the Google street view technology most of us are already familiar with, except Seaview, as it is familiarly referred to, shows life-like images underwater. Google Seaview already allows browsers to navigate full 360 degree views of some of the most famous reefs in the world, but with this new addition you can explore one of Bermuda’s most historic shipwrecks without every getting your feet wet. 

The Mary Celestia is one of the most heavily dived sites in Bermuda drawing attention from diving enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Registered at 207 tons, the Mary Celstia first set sail in February of 1864. The vessel, a 221 foot iron-hull paddle steamer, was used as a blockade runner towards the end of the civil war.  It was originally made by the Liverpool Shipyard of William C. Miller and Son and later commissioned by William and James Crenshaw, two brothers from Richmond Virginia to help them transport goods to England and other colonies. 

On its last voyage September 6, 1864, the steamer was smuggling ammunition and riffles to Wilmington. As the ship approached the shore to drop off William Crenshaw and his pilot John Virgin, it collided with a reef several hundred yards off of Gibbs Hill Lighthouse and sunk down 55 feet to where it rests today. 

Though covered in coral, you can still clearly see the 14 foot paddle wheel that propelled this historic vessel. Explore this historic ship yourself using the following link.