Since the loss of the Trial in 1622, more than seven thousand shipwrecks have occurred in Australian waters. A significant number of these have now been located – often revealing themselves as time capsules providing fascinating insights into marine transportation, cargoes and early colonial life.
This is the story of how a unique underwater resource has been conserved and protected as part of the nation’s rich maritime heritage – including wrecks associated with early exploration, colonial trade, whaling and the introduction of steam technology. Containing comprehensive maps and many previously unpublished photographs, Shipwreck Archaeology documents the work of leading maritime archaeologists on some of Australia’s most important shipwreck sites.