Kingsley, an experienced marine archaeologist, director of Wreck Watch International, and frequent consultant for commercial and non-profit marine archaeological organizations, has a record of defending commercial and academic underwater archaeological activity against what he considers an excessive concern with in situ preservation … This book will educate readers about this threat to our marine cultural heritage and encourage them to advocate proper protections.

The Classical Journal

Shipwrecks are widely regarded by archaeologists as invaluable “time capsules,” preserving otherwise unobtainable data on aspects of the human past. In Fishing and Shipwreck Heritage, Sean Kingsley documents how the modern commercial fishing industry is ripping these precious capsules apart, spreading their contents far and wide and exposing them to total destruction. He also documents a conspiracy of silence among industries, governments, heritage authorities and nautical archaeologists themselves, allowing us to turn a blind eye to the destruction. Fishing and Shipwreck Heritage is a call to action that must not be ignored.

Thomas F. King, Senior Archaeologist, The International Group for Historic Aircraft Recovery (TIGHAR), Silver Spring Maryland, USA

A well-considered and thorough piece of research on a problem that is hidden from sight (and the minds) of the majority of people. It provides a compelling argument for an urgent consideration of the effects of fishing upon our underwater cultural heritage, and will be of interest to those working in the fields of archaeology, maritime heritage and the marine environment.

Ruth H. Thurstan, Post-doctoral Researcher, University of Queensland, Australia

The author has had the courage to face the question of the dramatic impact of fishing on the ancient shipwrecks, analytically arguing the quality and the quantity of a phenomenon which is much more devastating than any other form of impact on this cultural resource. The book should touch the consciences of the institutions which can no more ignore one of the more neglected and troublesome problems of the management of the archaeological heritage.

Carlo Beltrame, Post-doctoral Researcher, University of Venice, Italy

We wouldn't plough up Nineveh or bulldoze Hadrian's Wall, but unwittingly we have left extraordinary marine archaeological treasures to the mercy of trawl net and dredge. This vitally important book makes a compelling and richly detailed case for their urgent protection.

Callum Roberts, Professor of Marine Conservation, University of York, UK