He told reporters on the shore that the purpose of his underwater expedition was to bring attention to the history and development of Russia in the region.
Vladimir Putin Ancient Shipwreck
However, the Ukranian president complained that Putin should have first consulted him before the visit.
This is not Vladimir Putin's first exploration of the Black Sea. In 2011, the Russian president was criticised for his 'recovery' of two ancient amphorae during a scuba diving mission. Later it was revealed by his spokesperson that the relics were in fact planted there for him to recover.
Putin's primary reason for being in Crimea was to investigate ways of improving tourism in the area.