Deepwater Archaeology: Advancements, Opportunities, and Limitations

Marine archaeology continues to evolve as surveys expand beyond deepwater (areas 500-1000 meters deep) into ultra-deepwater (areas deeper than 1500 meters) around the globe. While the archaeological principles remain the same regardless of depth, often the tools, research questions, opportunities, and challenges are significantly different from those found in shallower waters. This session explores the intricacies of archaeology in deepwater and the difficulties that often accompany a deepwater project. The papers in this session seek to address topics ranging from how archaeologists are currently studying these sites, the tools available, and the research designs and methodologies employed; to public outreach initiatives, opportunities for young professionals, and the future direction of the field as a whole.