Our Sunken Heritage

The South African Heritage Resources Agency (SAHRA) is an agency of the Department of Arts and Culture, tasked with the management of the nation's heritage estate. SAHRA's Maritime and Underwater Cultural Heritage (MUCH) Unit is responsible for the identification, management, conservation and promotion of heritage sites that connect us with the water around us.

Many of South Africa's heritage sites lie below the waves, hidden from view. Our modern history was significantly influenced by ships that came to our shores. This is evidenced along the South African coastline which is littered with the remains of ships that met their grief on such journeys, thus shaping the cultural identity of all South Africans in some way. However, many of South Africa's indigenous cultures have a strong connection to water beyond the shipwrecks - by means of rivers, sacred lakes or coastal sites such as fish traps. 

Dive Responsibly

Historical shipwreck sites are legally protected from treasure hunting by the National Heritage Resources Act (No. 25 of 1999). It is illegal to remove or disturb any part of a shipwreck site that is older than 60 years without a permit from SAHRA. Scuba diving on such sites is a pleasure and a privilege. SAHRA strongly encourages scuba divers to visit and enjoy these underwater cultural treasures responsibly so that future generations of divers may do the same. Permit applicants can visit www.sahra.org.za and register on SAHRIS, SAHRA's new online information system.

Training and Development

We believe that just because underwater sites are more difficult to access than many land sites, it shouldn't stop South Africans from learning about and appreciating this aspect of our shared heritage.

SAHRA's MUCH Unit coordinates training courses, open to divers and non-divers alike, in basic archaeological theory and methods. This training enables participants to assist with maritime archaeological projects and interact more meaningfully with these underwater and land sites. For more information, please visit www.sahra.org.za or email info@sahra.org.za

The Underwater Youth Development Programme (UYDP) introduces South African school learners to the practice of maritime archaeology and the wonder of our underwater heritage. The UYDP teaches practical skills such as swimming and snorkelling, and helps create an appreciation of how our past shapes our future through interaction with archaeological sites and professionals. The MUCH Unit has produced an educational booklet for learners of all ages that can be downloaded for free at www.sahra.org.za

Maritime and Underwater Cultural Heritage does not exist in a vacuum; it is part of the vivid tapestry that makes up South Africa's identity. 

Enjoy it, appreciate it and help us protect it.