Archaeology is the scientific study of past human cultures through the objects that are left behind. Maritime archaeology is no different, it just requires the use of boats and scuba gear to work underwater. Since archaeological sites are non-renewable and need to be protected, FPAN encourages the general public to learn about submerged sites and hopes to provide opportunities that allow divers to add to the knowledge of the maritime past. All divers have a responsibility to preserve the underwater environment for everyone’s enjoyment. This includes not only coral reefs, but also shipwrecks. Unfortunately, because maritime sites are underwater, they are often “out of site, out of mind.” FPAN’s maritime archaeology focuses on protecting and preserving submerged cultural resources while involving the public in the process. We do this by providing opportunities for sport divers to learn about seafaring cultures, maritime laws and ethics, and methods for recording and protecting submerged sites through the Florida Division of Historical Resources’ Orientation to Underwater Archaeology Classes for Sport Divers and Heritage Awareness Diving Seminars. FPAN is currently working with a group of local divers to document obstructions and shipwrecks marked on nautical charts in order to add these sites to the Florida Master Site File so they can be recognized and protected.

The FPAN CRC stores and maintains the FPAN dive boat, a 21-ft Parker, which is used to provide field opportunities for interested, trained, divers around Florida. Safety is the primary concern with any program, but diving and underwater investigations pose a special risk, and require special safety considerations. All dives conducted by the FPAN CRC are conducted under the auspices of the USF scientific diving program. This means that all dives done by FPAN CRC staff and volunteers must be conducted through USF and must also adhere to the American Academy of Underwater Science (AAUS) Standards. All volunteer divers must meet AAUS standards in order to dive from the FPAN boat. However, successful dives have been completed by volunteer divers who have supplied their own diving platforms on projects.

See our programs section for information about current projects conducted by FPAN staff.

Remember – when diving – “take only pictures, and leave only bubbles.”