Boston Sea Rovers, the world’s oldest and longest-running underwater diving club and exposition, is proud to announce the launch of a brand-new feature at its March 14–16, 2026 International Ocean Clinic – The Shipwreck Exhibit in Memory of Captain Joe Mazraani. The immersive, 2026 exhibit will commemorate the 70th anniversary of the SS Andrea Doria sinking, one of the most iconic shipwrecks in North Atlantic diving history.
Located approximately 100 miles southeast of Montauk Point, the wreck of the Italian luxury liner Andrea Doria lies at roughly 255 feet depth in cold, strong currents and notoriously low visibility—conditions that have made it both legendary and challenging among technical divers worldwide.
“The history of the Andrea Doria is not only a story of tragedy, but of human curiosity, resilience, and the spirit of underwater exploration,” said Kim Malkoski, President of Boston Sea Rovers. “Honoring this legacy through artifacts and voices of those who have risked the North Atlantic to explore her remains deepens public appreciation of maritime history and the contributions wreck divers have made to ocean science, exploration, and diving culture.”
A Living Tribute to Maritime Legacy
The Shipwreck Exhibit will include:
- Rare artifacts recovered over seven decades of exploration—including the Andrea Doria’s gyro compass repeater (making its public debut), compass binnacle, foghorn, steering helm, fine China, and period artwork.
- Firsthand perspectives from veteran explorers who have repeatedly dived and led expeditions to the wreck site.
- Historical context detailing the 1956 collision with MS Stockholm, rescue efforts, and how Andrea Doria became a catalyst for North Atlantic wreck diving.
The exhibit is dedicated to the memory of Captain Joe Mazraani, a renowned explorer and Boston Sea Rover associate who passed away in July 2025 while documenting a yet-uncharted shipwreck on Georges Bank. Mazraani’s passion for maritime history and dedication to exploration AndreaDoriaand other shipwrecks off the Eastern seaboard inspired the installation and the idea for its semi-annual rotation. The exhibit is co-chaired by Richard Simon (Boston Sea Rover associate) and Michael Dudas (diver/explorer).
Andrea Doria – From Ocean Liner to Iconic Wreck
Built in Genoa, Italy, by Gio. Ansaldo & Company, the 700-foot AndreaDoriawas renowned as a symbol of Italian craftsmanship and luxury, often described as a “floating art gallery.” On July 26, 1956, she collided with the Swedish passenger ship Stockholm in dense fog off the New England coast. Andrea Doria sank nearly 12 hours later; of the 1,706 aboard, 46 lives were lost. Stockholm returned to port carrying survivors. Her bow was later repaired, and she continued to sail as a cruise ship for decades under different names.
AndreaDoria quickly captured the world’s imagination. Boston Sea Rover Peter Gimbel and Joseph Fox made national headlines when they dived the site for Life Magazine, sparking fascination with deep-sea shipwreck exploration that continues today. Throughout the years, explorers, including many Boston Sea Rover associates, have dived the wreck to preserve her history and tell her story.
A Must-See Feature at the 2026 International Ocean Clinic
The Shipwreck Exhibit in Memory of Captain Joe Mazraani joins an already robust lineup at Boston Sea Rovers’ Ocean Clinic—including exhibitor booths, keynote presentations, workshops, seminars, art exhibits, film screenings, and hands-on experiences designed to educate, inspire, and celebrate the underwater world.
- Event: Boston Sea Rovers International Ocean Clinic
- Date: March 14–16, 2026
- Location: DoubleTree by Hilton — Boston North Shore
More Information: BostonSeaRovers.com
About Boston Sea Rovers
Founded in 1954, Boston Sea Rovers is a 501(c)(3) volunteer nonprofit dedicated to increasing awareness and understanding of the underwater world. Its annual Ocean Clinic draws divers, scientists, photographers, filmmakers, and ocean enthusiasts from across the globe to share knowledge and experiences. For more information, please visit: https://www.bostonsearovers.com
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