Martin Blyth-Sweetingham, from the British Titanic Society, said: “There is mixed opinion in relation to whether the site of RMS Titanic should be visited by tourists, as it is considered by some as a sacred grave site and understandably some descendants of passengers may be upset by the visits to the wreckage”.
“It is important to note that there are no human remains at the wreckage and both entrance to the wreck and the removal of artefacts is strictly prohibited under international agreement.”
Mr Blyth-Sweetingham said the Titanic was, “the most technically advanced ship of its time – a celebration of engineering innovation and many people wish to celebrate this”, and its sinking led to huge improvements in safety at sea such as international routine ice patrols, the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (Solas) and rules about 24/7 radio monitoring of distress channels.
“Most dives to the wreckage are science-based and lots has been/is being learned for the benefit of humankind,” he said.
