The shipwreck, located in the azure waters of the Indian Ocean near Malindi, Kenya, has sparked excitement among researchers. Filipe Castro, a nautical archaeologist from the University of Coimbra in Portugal, leads the investigation into this enigmatic vessel. While the ship’s identity remains unconfirmed, evidence suggests it could be the San Jorge, a vessel from Vasco da Gama’s armada that sank in 1524.

The significance of this discovery cannot be overstated. If verified, this wreck would represent the oldest European shipwreck found in the Indian Ocean. The potential link to Vasco da Gama’s fleet adds a layer of historical importance, offering tangible proof of Portuguese presence in Kenyan waters during the early 16th century.

Interestingly, maritime discoveries are not limited to warm waters. In a recent development, researchers have uncovered an ancient wall in the Baltic Sea, further highlighting the vast potential for underwater archaeological finds across the globe.

A treasure trove for archaeologists

The Ngomeni reef, stretching over 25 kilometers, has become a focal point for archaeological research. Castro and his team have meticulously studied the coral-encrusted remains, piecing together clues about the ship’s origin and purpose. Their findings, published in the Journal of Maritime Archaeology on November 18, 2024, shed light on Portuguese ships of the early 16th century.

The study, titled “The Ngomeni Shipwreck and the Ships of the Portuguese India Route,” underscores the rarity of such discoveries. Few ships from the Portuguese expansion into the Indian and Pacific Oceans between the 15th and 17th centuries have been excavated, making this wreck an invaluable source of information.

Castro enthusiastically describes the site as “a unique wreck” and “a treasure.” His sentiment is echoed by Sean Kingsley, a maritime archaeologist not involved in the study, who emphasizes the importance of European shipwrecks in Kenyan waters as “prized properties.”

Vasco da Gama’s legacy and final voyage

The potential connection to Vasco da Gama adds a compelling historical dimension to the discovery. Vasco da Gama (1460-1524) was a renowned Portuguese navigator who :

• Pioneered the sea route to India around Africa
• Established the first Portuguese trading post in Asia
• Served as Viceroy of India shortly before his death

If the wreck is indeed the San Jorge, it would date back to 1524, coinciding with Vasco da Gama’s final voyage to India. This expedition, comprising 20 ships, was tragically cut short when da Gama succumbed to malaria shortly after arrival. Historical records indicate that two ships from this fleet sank near Malindi in the 16th century : the San Jorge in 1524 and the Nossa Senhora da Graça in 1544.

The following table summarizes key facts about Vasco da Gama’s voyages :

Implications for local heritage

The Centre for Functional Ecology, in an April 2024 communiqué, emphasized that while the ship’s identification remains tentative, its symbolic value for the local population is profound. The wreck potentially provides irrefutable evidence of Vasco da Gama’s third armada in Kenyan waters, bridging a gap in the region’s maritime history.

This discovery not only enriches our understanding of Portuguese naval expeditions but also highlights Kenya’s role in the Age of Exploration. As research continues, the Ngomeni shipwreck stands as a testament to the enduring allure of maritime archaeology and its power to illuminate forgotten chapters of our shared global history.