A Maritime Heritage Trail and Shipwreck Preserves for the Cayman Islands

Abstract

Maritime heritage trails, underwater archaeological preserves, and shipwreck parks are proven methods for promoting public access to maritime cultural sites, both on land and under water (Spirek and Scott-Ireton, 2003). Inclusive educational and interpretive strategies employed in public access programs help to preserve sites by inspiring the public. People become guardians of the past as they learn about sites and their importance for research and recreation. Interpreted maritime cultural resources become heritage attractions for their communities, providing economic benefits through tourism and site visitation. Many maritime cultural sites, both on land and under water, are appropriate for public access and interpretation. Land-based maritime sites, such as lighthouses, wharves, and careenages interpreted thematically, provide opportunities for visitors to learn about a community’s seafaring heritage. Diving and snorkelling visitors can experience submerged resources such as shipwrecks, inundated sites, and structures built in water that are presented as both historically significant cultural resources and as environmentally important ecological resources. While certain maritime sites are too fragile and archaeologically sensitive to support public visitation, there are other more robust sites that have become stable in their environment. Effectively interpreted and actively managed, these sites can sustain large numbers of visitors.