The operation is a joint project of the France’s underwater archaeology research department (Département des Recherches Archéologiques Subaquatiques et Sous- Marines: DRASSM) and the Chief Technology Office of the City of Amsterdam. The survey is a follow-up of an earlier joined maritime archaeological research by the same team in 16-30 September 2019.
The aim of the 2021 project is to find indications to localise the wreck site of the Leusden. The operation will consist of two parts. Firstly, to execute a magnetometer survey by means of a drone to cover a large area where the wreck can be situated. The search area is based on an analysis of historical data of the wrecking combined with (contemporary) sea charts and the outcome of earlier magnetometer surveys in 2013 and 2019 in the north part of the area. Secondly, to verify anomalies located in 2013 and 2019 and possible new anomalies of the mag drone by means of a physical diving inspection of the seabed.
Next to the scientific goal the operation will also include an on-site documentary production by the Amsterdam television company AT5 on the history and search for the Leusden. The film operation is planned for the first week of November. During that period also historian Leo Balai, who discovered and studied the tragedy of the Leusden by archival and historical research, will join the team. Plans to include film recordings for a film documentary by the Paris-based production company Kreyolimages are under development.
Source: Gawronski, J., & L'Hour, M. 2021. Project Plan Localisation of the Leusden 2021. Département des Recherches Archéologiques Subaquatiques et Sous-Marines (DRASSM), Marseille. Chief Technology Office, City of Amsterdam