A shipwreck off the coast of Kenya may belong to one of Vasco da Gama's historic voyages into the Indian Ocean, according to archaeologists. The remains, found near Malindi in 2013, are among eight known Portuguese shipwrecks from that era. Researchers suggest it could be the São Jorge, which sank in 1524, though this identification remains unverified.
If confirmed as the São Jorge, it would mark the earliest European shipwreck in the Indian Ocean. Filipe Castro, a maritime archaeologist from the University of Coimbra and lead author of a recent study published on November 18 in the Journal of Maritime Archaeology, stated, "We don't know for sure." The team plans to conduct an archaeological survey of the coral reefs extending from Malindi to Ras Ngomeni, covering approximately 15 miles (25 kilometers).
The wreck lies about 1,640 feet (500 meters) offshore at a depth of 20 feet (6 meters), mostly obscured by corals. Divers have unearthed timbers from the ship's hull and frame in two archaeological trenches. Da Gama, who lived from circa 1469 to 1524, was the first to navigate the route from Europe to the Indian Ocean in 1497, establishing a Portuguese trading empire.
The São Jorge was among 20 ships that accompanied da Gama on his final voyage in 1524 and sank shortly before his death. The study proposes it was one of two early Portuguese vessels lost near Malindi, the other being Nossa Senhora da Graça, which sank in 1544. Castro noted that confirming the wreck as the São Jorge would hold significant historical value, representing Vasco da Gama's presence in Kenyan waters.
Kenyan authorities have expressed interest in the Malindi wreck, which may be developed into an underwater museum. The site was initially discovered by Caesar Bita, an underwater archaeologist at the National Museums of Kenya, who retrieved copper ingots and elephant tusks. Bita is currently assisting with the ongoing investigation.
Sean Kingsley, a maritime archaeologist and editor of Wreckwatch magazine, described the wreck as "archaeological stardust" if it is indeed the São Jorge. He emphasized the importance of protecting the site, stating, "This is one wreck that screams out for protection, respect and care before its back story vanishes forever."