Explorers making the first manned voyage to the Titanic wreckage in 14 years said they have uncovered a partial collapse of its hull.
Nearly 13,125ft beneath the surface of the Atlantic, salt corrosion and metal-eating bacteria have worn away parts of the Belfast-built liner.
Divers found the hull near the officers’ quarters on the starboard side has started to collapse, taking with it the vessel’s luxurious stateroom accommodation, according to exploration company Caladan Oceanic.
Titanic historian Parks Stephenson said: “That whole deck hole on that side is collapsing, taking with it the staterooms and the deterioration is going to continue advancing.
“The captain’s bath tub is a favourite image among the Titanic enthusiasts and that’s now gone.”
The first 4K quality images of the ship were captured during the expedition and will be published alongside a documentary, which is being made by film company Atlantic Productions.
Caladan Oceanic chief executive Victor Vescovo said: “It was extraordinary. The most amazing moment came when I was going along the side of the Titanic and the bright lights of the submersible reflected off a portal and came right back – it was like the ship was winking at me.”
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