The Research Vessel Pilialoha Formerly a 40' Navy launch, built in 1967, the R.V. Pilialoha has been rebuilt to accommodate archaeological missions within the State of Hawai'i. In addition to being a fully equipped dive platform, remote sensing with the Fisher Proton 3 Magnetometer has proven useful in locating shipwrecks such as the Ha'aheo o Hawai'i as well as other vessels. A prop-wash deflector, referred to by the crew as Kaipuhi, has been fitted to the stern of the vessel. Her Detroit 671 diesel engine has been found to effectively move sand well below 20 of water. This device, augmented by air lifts and suction dredges gives our divers great versatility in removing matrix from submerged archaeological sites.

Archaeological Research Services

Our staff of research consultants is very familiar with the various archives in the State of Hawaii and around the Pacific Rim. A great deal of maritime data has been collected and is currently on file. Occasionally we have been contacted by people doing genealogical research, knowing that an ancestor was in one way or another attached to a certain vessel. We have been able to provide a history of the vessel with supporting documents. Divers sometimes find artifacts. Quite often we are able to help identify the type of artifact in question and provide some idea of what ships might have been wrecked in the vicinity. Occasionally this will lead to the identification of a historic shipwreck, crediting the diver with the discovery. No treasure claims will be recognized in Hawaii, but this makes for great bragging rights.

Unique Tools and Toys

Always on the lookout for better ways to work and play in the ocean, our crew has devised a number of curious devices and toys. The little Yellow Submarine should be ready for sea trials early this summer…Stay tuned for the dive reports. The in-line filter system works with the suction dredge, eliminating messy surface sorting of dredge spoils. It is most useful at sites with small amounts of spoil to sort. The Surf Igloo is deing developed to allow divers to perform archaeological excavations within the active surf zone.

For confidential assessment of artifacts or voluntary cataloging contact
Captain Rick

Personal consultation can be made available through
E-mail to Captain Rick himself.

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