HMS Terror Underwater Archaeological Survey April 2017

This report describes archaeological activities carried out by Parks Canada’s Underwater Archaeology Team in April 2017 at HMS Terror, in Terror Bay, Nunavut. The inspection work was achieved using a remotely operated vehicle deployed through an ice hole positioned over the wreck. The general goal was to document the HMS Terror wreck and its debris field in order to evaluate the site’s archaeological potential and integrity. It aimed more specifically to achieve complete exterior video and photo documentation of the wreck, as well as sector-scanning sonar recording of selected features. The exterior of the wreck was thoroughly documented, except for the starboard side of the vessel. Sector-scanning sonar was used to position and map a ship’s boat on the seafloor. The data collected thus far from HMS Terror now provides a benchmark for planning further archaeological research; it also demonstrates the amazing state of preservation of the wreck.

Data and Resources

Additional Info

Field Value
Last Updated April 17, 2026, 21:46 (UTC)
Created April 17, 2026, 21:46 (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 2018-01-01 00:00:00
open_canada_keywords {"en": ["Underwater Archaeology", "Franklin Expedition", "HMS Erebus", "HMS Terror"], "fr": ["Archéologie subaquatique", "Expédition Fraklin", "HMS Erebus", "HMS Terror"]}
open_canada_subject ["history_and_archaeology", "science_and_technology"]
sensitivity_level unrestricted
title_fr Étude archéologique subaquatique du HMS Terror – Avril 2017
update_frequency as_needed