Rob Ellis: Underwater Ring Recovery Specialist. Call or text 703-598-1435
July 5th, 2020, Annapolis Landing Marina.
Nick was helping passengers disembark from a tour boat onto the dock when a child fell into the water. He immediately provided assistance, pulling the boy from the water. After the adrenaline subsided from the rescue, Nick realized his beautiful diamond wedding ring was missing. He had another diver look for the ring for several hours that night, but the diver was unable to find it.
Nick called me the next morning and we were able to search that afternoon. Even though Nick was up most of the night with the other diver, he was alert and very detailed in his description of the incident. After meeting and getting the marina manager’s support for my search from Ralph, I prepared for the search. The marina staff and the boat owners we met were very friendly and made us feel welcome. The marina certainly lives up to its slogan as the “finest and friendliest marina in Annapolis”.
Annapolis Landing Marina
The water along the dock is brackish tidal. That day it was twelve feet deep and I could not see a thing. I used a circular search pattern and slowly combed the area. With the noise of all the holiday weekend boats in the water and zero visibility, it was disorienting. I was glad to be tethered to my divemaster (Mrs.E) on the surface. There was the usual trash to be expected around any dock. After about 45 minutes, I heard a target and could feel the shape of the ring. We were so happy to return the ring to Nick!
I am a detectorist with over 35 years’ experience in detecting on both dry land and under water. As a skilled underwater search and recovery specialist, I am often called to search after inexperienced divers attempted to recover the lost object. Underwater searches require unique techniques and equipment. At a minimum, an underwater detectorist should hold Advanced Diver or Master SCUBA Diver certifications. I also recommend they be certified in Underwater Metal Detecting, and Search & Recovery. As a Master SCUBA Instructor, I designed and taught the first specialty certification course for underwater metal detecting. I have professional certifications to teach SCUBA divers in 4 internationally recognized certification agencies and thousands of hours of underwater experience. When you call me, we will discuss the specifics of your situation. If I do not think there is a good chance of finding your lost item, I will not accept your case. (703)-598-1435
Bailey was spending a fun evening on Kure Beach with her family. Bailey is also planning a September wedding. She was asked to perform a cartwheel in the sand. Before the attempt, she gave her engagement ring to her younger sister for safe keeping. During the excitement and festivities, the ring slipped off of little sister’s hand into the sand. Both sisters were very upset. The following morning I get a call from Bailey’s father. He explained what had happened and plans were made to meet just afternoon. When I pulled the first target, a red can top, Dad yelled that I had found it! I think that helped ease the stress levels. Unfortunately, my 2nd target a silver can top gave Bailey false hopes it was her ring. The 3rd target was the one we all had hope to recover! The excitement & tears made the 2 hour drive to their location all worth while!
