'Overall, this is a well researched and written book that makes a significant contribution to both underwater archaeology and maritime history … Archaeologists, historians and anyone with an interest in the maritime world will find this book appealing, worthwhile and a valuable addition to their personal libraries.' The Northern Mariner
Introduction: toward a higher standard; 1. Interpreting the underwater archaeological record; 2. Underwater archaeology: the state of the art; 3. Ships and shipwrecks: basic mechanics; 4. The archaeology of small watercraft; 5. The earliest ships; 6. Shipwrecks and our understanding of ancient trade; 7. Sailing ships of the Middle Ages; 8. Ships of the great age of sail; 9. From sail to steam in maritime commerce; 10. New technologies and naval warfare; 11. The archaeology of maritime infrastructure; 12. The future of shipwreck archaeology.