Is collecting relics and artifacts from wrecks always legal and allowed?

Collecting relics and artifacts from wrecks is not always legal due to various regulations and laws that govern the protection of historical sites and cultural heritage. Many countries have specific legislation in place that prohibits the disturbance or removal of items from shipwrecks, particularly those that are considered protected under national heritage laws or international agreements.

Furthermore, the legality can also depend on the status of the wreck, whether it is located in international waters or territorial waters, and what permissions, if any, have been obtained from relevant authorities. These factors make it essential for divers and collectors to be aware of and comply with legal restrictions and guidelines regarding salvage operations and the preservation of underwater cultural heritage.

The other options suggest a certainty in legality that does not acknowledge the complexities and variations associated with maritime laws and regulations, which is why they do not accurately reflect the practice in most jurisdictions.