Surveys of the sea floor have usually included the use of dual side-scan sonar's, magnetometers, a computerised track-plotter and differential GPS.

Visual investigations of anomalies recorded electronically are done by divers who usually apply de-compressing dive tables. Remote operated vehicles (ROV) have also frequently been used.

All the wrecks introduced here are located far from shore and in deep water. Their location has protected them from unauthorised recovery so that they are expected to provide much new information about Ming-period maritime trade. The content of the ceramic cargo from this series of wrecks is expected to shed light on the chronology of specific types of wares, particularly from the kilns of Southeast Asia.

With documented shipwreck ceramics, there is no doubt about authenticity or provenance. This is important in a time when so many antiques on the market are suspect. Shipwreck ceramics also have historical and archaeological value. Every wrecksite yields secrets that increase our knowledge about ancient trade patterns and trade products, as well as shipbuilding techniques.

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