Contemporary public discourses about archaeology are routinely characterized by scientific and historical narratives that leave the water blank. This book weaves together voices from across the Asia-Pacific region, revealing maritime archaeology as a labour of love rooted in connection, compassion and community. Contributors from Hawaii to Sri Lanka share how emotion and relationality shape their work with submerged heritage. The collaboration of archaeologists and communities collaborating to preserve maritime cultural heritage is demonstrated throughout, recognizing that wholeness emerges not from uniformity but from the symphony of the distinct voices united by a shared passion for the ocean’s stories.

Contemporary public discourses about archaeology are routinely characterized by scientific and historical narratives that leave the water blank. This book weaves together voices from across the Asia-Pacific region, revealing maritime archaeology as a labour of love rooted in connection, compassion and community. Contributors from Hawaii to Sri Lanka share how emotion and relationality shape their work with submerged heritage. The collaboration of archaeologists and communities collaborating to preserve maritime cultural heritage is demonstrated throughout, recognizing that wholeness emerges not from uniformity but from the symphony of the distinct voices united by a shared passion for the ocean’s stories.