Expedition Objectives
Marine Archaeology Objectives
The marine archaeology component of the HMCS Canada Expedition 2025 focuses on documenting the wreck of HMCS Canada. Leveraging advanced technical diving and underwater imaging techniques, the team aims to create a detailed 3D model of the wreck using structure-from-motion photogrammetry. The resulting scaled model will allow for thorough examination of its archaeological characteristics and structural integrity without disturbing the site. Our specific objectives are:
Non-Invasive Documentation: High-resolution underwater imaging using photogrammetric acquisition methodologies will capture every detail of the wreck. Imagery will be processed with photogrammetric software to ensuring a comprehensive, accurate, and publicly available digital record.
Structural Analysis: Study the ship’s construction and modifications, including changes made during its conversion to the passenger vessel Queen of Nassau. The analysis will also yield information on site stability and site impacts, such as fishing and anchoring, that may necessitate management intervention
Archaeological Insights: Investigate artifacts and structural elements to uncover new information about the ship’s naval service, its role as a flagship, and its transition to civilian use.
Marine Sciences Objective
The marine sciences component of the HMCS Canada Expedition 2025 focuses on studying the ecological and environmental aspects of the wreck site in collaboration with NOAA. This research will enhance understanding of the shipwreck’s role within the marine environment and support conservation efforts. Our specific marine science objectives are:
Ecological Assessment: Document the species diversity and abundance on and around the wreck to evaluate its role as an artificial reef. Establishes a baseline for long-term monitoring of the wreck’s ecological health and its interactions with the marine environment.
Invasive Species Monitoring: Identify and assess the presence of invasive species that may impact the local marine ecosystem.
Conservation Data Collection: Provide NOAA with critical data to inform management strategies for this significant shipwreck. The integration of cultural and natural resource studies meets the overall conservation mandates of Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary.
Technology Developed For The Expedition: Photogrammetry Sled Development
The HMCS Canada wreck site depth and dimension require a means to perform photogrammetry scans over large areas and under strict time constraints. The team has developed a stable and maneuverable DPV (Diver Propulsion Vehicle)-mounted platform for holding underwater video lights and cameras, as these are not commercially available. Our first photogrammetry sled prototype was tested in August 2025. It consists of an extruded aluminum channels frame with two ABS piping floats to achieve neutral buoyancy and trim. Four powerful lights and two GoPro action cameras in underwater housings are attached on the perimeter. The sled is strapped to the DPV using scuba diving tank bands. And, importantly, it is air travel compatible as it disassembles like a Meccano set.
The sled performed above expectations during our test runs. It proved to be solid and required minimal manipulation to initiate the scan. The sled is manageable on the surface and at depth. The dual camera overlap and picture clarity increase the likelihood of the photogrammetry software reliably reconstructing 3D models. We successfully generated models from cruising speed scans (three times finning speed). Testing and refinement continues at progressively deeper and darker sites as well as in strong currents in preparation for the expedition.
The 3D model produced following the first test run is available to view on Sketchfab: https://skfb.ly/pAtxy