Finding all the nuclear waste barrels in Grand Theft Auto V is one of the most rewarding collection tasks in the game. Players who take the time to scour the ocean floor can unlock achievements and collect significant cash rewards. This guide explains how to prepare for the search and locate every barrel hidden around San Andreas.
Unlocking the Nuclear Waste Collection Mission
Before you can begin collecting radioactive barrels, you must first unlock access to the submarine. This requires purchasing the Sonar Collections Dock property for $250,000 after completing The Merryweather Heist story mission. Once purchased, a yellow submarine will permanently spawn at the dock, ready for deep-sea exploration.
Entering the submarine automatically activates the Trackify app on your character's in-game smartphone. This application acts as a sonar radar, guiding you toward the nearest radioactive barrel submerged off the coast. Using the Trackify feature effectively makes navigation across the vast ocean floor significantly easier.
Navigating the Ocean Floor and Finding Barrels
There are 30 nuclear waste barrels scattered in the waters surrounding the San Andreas coastline. Most barrels are located near underwater landmarks such as rock formations, ocean trenches, or sunken shipwrecks. Navigating around these structures requires patience, as the submarine moves relatively slowly.
As you approach a barrel, look for a bright yellow container resting on the seabed or tucked along rock ledges. Simply drive the submarine directly into the barrel to automatically collect it. Alternatively, players can choose to swim directly to the items using scuba gear if necessary.
Financial Rewards and Completion Bonuses
Collecting nuclear waste is an excellent way to boost your character's bank balance early in the game. Each barrel retrieved grants an instant reward of $23,000. This steady income makes the search worthwhile as you progress through the map.
Once all 30 barrels are collected, players receive a massive completion bonus of $250,000. In total, completing the entire set earns you $940,000 along with the Waste Management achievement. It remains one of the most profitable side activities available in GTA 5.
