Events by Nautical Archaeology Society

The Nautical Archaeology Society (NAS) is pleased to invite the public to an immersive discovery day held at our historic headquarters at Fort Cumberland in Portsmouth. As we celebrate our ongoing mission to record, preserve, and protect our underwater and intertidal maritime heritage, this event offers a unique window into the world of nautical archaeology. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage directly with the processes that define our field, moving beyond mere observation to practical exploration. Bridging the Past and Present Our event is designed to highlight the sophisticated blend of traditional and modern methodologies currently used in the field. From the study of historic archives to the use of advanced digital mapping, participants will see how we uncover stories hidden beneath the waves. This workshop is curated for those who are curious about how maritime archaeology brings the past to life, focusing on the preservation of sites like those found in the Solent and across the UK coast. Practical Skills and Citizen Science A major focus of the day is our "Citizen Science" initiative. We believe that heritage preservation is a collaborative effort, and this workshop will provide you with the essential skills to assist in this vital work. Whether you are an aspiring archaeologist, a diver, or simply a history enthusiast, you will gain insights into how to identify and record maritime artifacts and wrecks. Our experts will lead sessions on the ethics of maritime heritage, the importance of "Adopt a Wreck" schemes, and how environmental factors impact our submerged history. Interactive Learning Experiences The day will feature interactive stations where attendees can handle non-sensitive, recorded artifacts, view sonar data, and learn how to interpret submerged landscapes. You will be able to speak with active project leaders about current endeavors, such as our work in Langstone Harbour and other ongoing coastal projects. Community and Conservation Finally, the workshop serves as a networking hub for the maritime community. It is an opportunity to meet like-minded individuals, join our volunteer dive club (NASAC), and learn about the career pathways and academic research currently supported by the Society. We look forward to welcoming you to Fort Cumberland, where discovery is just the beginning of your journey into our fascinating maritime past.

The Nautical Archaeology Society (NAS) Annual Conference 2026 returns to the historic maritime city of Portsmouth to showcase the latest breakthroughs in underwater research and conservation. This two-day flagship event brings together a diverse international community of researchers, professional archaeologists, and dedicated volunteers to explore the evolving landscape of maritime heritage. The 2026 theme focuses on "Bridging the Depths," examining how traditional archaeological methods are being revolutionised by cutting-edge digital technologies. Attendees will gain exclusive insights into recent shipwreck discoveries, submerged prehistoric landscapes, and innovative site-recording techniques. The conference serves as a critical platform for sharing results from both high-budget professional excavations and grassroots community-led projects. Beyond the formal presentations, the event fosters a collaborative atmosphere through its dedicated "Research Gallery," where emerging scholars and project leaders display poster presentations and physical artifacts. This provides a unique opportunity for networking with industry leaders and academic experts. The weekend schedule is also complemented by social mixers and optional site visits to Portsmouth’s world-class maritime museums, including the Mary Rose Museum and the National Museum of the Royal Navy. Whether you are a professional maritime archaeologist, a student seeking to enter the field, or a diving enthusiast with a passion for history, this conference offers a comprehensive look at how we protect and interpret our threatened underwater heritage. Participants will leave with a deeper understanding of the legal frameworks protecting maritime sites and the practical skills being used to document our history before it is lost to the sea.