In 2007 the team analyzed a large area with multibeam sonar and magnetometer surveys narrowing the working area to a stretch measuring about 100 x 200 meters in which the main concentration of ship parts are found. The depths vary between 12 and 25 meters. Some underwater areas are very rocky, some of the rocks on the wreck areas have fall after the wreck took place, therefore covering some of the artifacts. It might be necessary to move some of these rocks to reach the ship remains.
A small part of the total area was sketched to provide enough information to plan the dives and necessary equipment for the 2008 season resulting in the map below. The area in which most artifacts have accumulated, either due to the sea action, the effects of storms or the wreckage itself, is an underwater valley created by two parallel rock formations. Between those rocks there is a long and narrow stretch of loose debris and concretions which varies from approximately 5 meters in the northern end to just 1 meter in the central area and widens up towards the southern area in which it almost reaches 10 meters.
In 2008 the archaeological dives will concentrate in squares A1 and A2 of the plan, from which most of the artifacts were recovered in 2007. This will give an initial working area of 10x20 meters, which will expand accordingly to the project developments.
One of the main goals of the excavation is to create a detailed mapping of the working areas, initially A1 and A2, to use as a base and guide for the archaeological operation. All the objects will be located and mapped before being raised using 3D mapping system or traditional measuring depending on the terrain.
In order to conduct the proper excavation various underwater tools will be used, for example an underwater dredge o water suction system that will help clearing the dust suspended in the water while divers are working to improve visibility. Tools and excavation techniques might vary according to the excavation needs and developments.