(Treasures, Tragedies and Triumphs of) The Batavia Coast.
By: Max Cramer.
Max Cramer has had a remarkable life. As the primary discoverer of the Dutch merchantman Batavia in the Abrolhos Islands, he has been actively involved in the Dutch wrecks along the Western Australian coast. His discovery and early diving on the wrecks makes for fascinating reading as they are a first-hand contemporary account of diving and, eventually, maritime archaeology. It tells of his early days at Shark Bay, hard-hat and commercial diving, treasure, spearfishing, and replica ships. The discovery and subsequent excavation of the Batavia is covered in some detail, as are the other Dutch wrecks Gilt Dragon, Zutydorp and Zeewyk. Other shipwrecks mentioned are the Georgette, Mayhill, Stanford, Stefano, and HMAS Sydney. A great read with down to earth writing and fascinating detail.
- Hardcover (laminated boards)
- mainly mono photos and diagrams with eight colour plates.