Mysterious Shipwreck Found Near Aktau in Caspian Sea

@Lada.kz

Fishermen at the Kazakh port of Aktau on the Caspian Sea have reported the discovery of a mysterious shipwreck approximately 1.5 kilometers from Cape Melovoy. The outline of the vessel, which is estimated to be around 70 meters long and 15 meters wide, has become visible due to the shallowing of the water in the area, The Caspian Post reports citing foreign media.

The location of the wreck has been identified at 43°0′0″ north latitude and 51°0′0″ east longitude. Satellite imagery available through Google Maps corroborates the fishermen’s accounts. A representative of a logistics company that monitors vessel traffic suggested that the wreck appears to be relatively recent.

While the discovery has generated significant local interest, no official investigation or underwater survey has been conducted yet. Bahramzhan Novruzov, an instructor at the Typhoon diving center, confirmed plans to explore the site in May 2025.

The origin, condition, and potential significance of the wreck remain unclear. Further analysis will be necessary to determine whether the vessel holds historical, commercial, or other value.

This discovery adds to a series of recent findings in the Caspian Sea, where falling water levels have exposed numerous wrecks. In Tupkaragan Bay, for example, the remnants of dozens of vessels have surfaced, revealing what some have called a “ship graveyard.”

Additionally, divers from the Russian Geographical Society have been investigating the Caspian seabed for vessels dating back to the era of Peter the Great, seeking to pinpoint their exact locations.

Underwater surveys planned for next year are expected to shed light on the mystery surrounding the Aktau wreck and contribute to the growing body of knowledge about the maritime history of the Caspian Sea.