HMS Erebus Underwater Archaeological Survey 2018

This research bulletin presents the results of archaeological fieldwork conducted by Parks Canada’s Underwater Archaeology Team at the wreck of HMS Erebus in September 2018. The project’s prime objective was to begin excavation of selected areas of the upper and lower decks, while continuing to document the wreck by mapping, photography and video. Unfortunately, Adverse Arctic ice conditions caused the project to be greatly shortened. Two out of four moorings were installed on site for the diving and excavation support barge Qiniqtiryuaq, from which five, two-person dives were staged. Nine artifacts were recovered, including a pitcher, a mercurial artificial horizon roof, and selected rigging elements. Wave action had moved structural timbers since the previous site inspection: recently a large portion of the upper deck had been detached and deposited upside down, further illustrating the dynamic nature of the site.

Data and Resources

Additional Info

Field Value
Last Updated April 17, 2026, 17:33 (UTC)
Created April 17, 2026, 17:33 (UTC)
contact_email charles.dagneau@pc.gc.ca
criticality_level ["aboriginal_peoples", "general_public", "scientists", "students"]
geographic_scope []
open_canada_collection publication
open_canada_date_published 2025-09-10 00:00:00
open_canada_keywords {"en": ["Underwater Archaeology", "Franklin Expedition", "HMS Erebus"], "fr": ["Archéologie subaquatique", "Expédition Fraklin", "HMS Erebus"]}
open_canada_subject ["history_and_archaeology"]
sensitivity_level unrestricted
title_fr Étude archéologique subaquatique du HMS Erebus en 2018
update_frequency not_planned