Aruba launches new underwater cultural heritage research

ORANJESTAD – Aruba is preparing for a new maritime research expedition aimed at identifying, documenting and protecting its underwater cultural heritage, including shipwrecks and other sites connected to the island’s maritime history.

The project is a collaboration between the National Archaeological Museum Aruba (MANA), IDNOVA, the Aruba Conservation Foundation (ACF) and international maritime research organization Inkfish LLC.

The expedition is scheduled for August 25 through September 15, 2026, with research taking place around Aruba aboard the RV Hydra. Advanced technology will be used, including high-resolution seabed mapping, 3D imaging and deep-water survey systems.

Archaeologist Harold Kelly of MANA and Oriana Wouters of IDNOVA will work alongside the international research team. An important part of the project is hands-on training for local professionals, helping Aruba build its own long-term capacity to research and protect underwater heritage.

The initiative builds on training received by Aruban heritage professionals in 2025 using internationally recognized UNESCO methods. That knowledge has already been applied to maritime heritage research in San Nicolas Bay and a reassessment of the SS Pedernales, with local divers also participating.

An agreement ensures that scientific data collected during the expedition will remain accessible to Aruba for future research, education and management of its underwater cultural heritage.

Updates on the expedition and its research around Aruba are expected to be shared with the public during the project.