Photogrammetric Survey of a Sixteenth-Century Spanish Shipwreck near Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

Author(s): Hawley, Kirsten M., Matthew J. Maus, Charles D. Beeker, Samuel I. Haskell

2018 Acua underwater archaeology proceedings

ABSTRACT

This paper presents results of a diver-based photogrammetric survey and preliminary interpretation of a 16th-century shipwreck near Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. The photogrammetric methodology highlights the potential of this technology to rapidly assess submerged cultural resources despite constraints limiting survey time. Objects retained by the government of the Dominican Republic suggest the ship was inbound for a New World colonial port in the mid-16th century. While the site was severely disturbed by commercial salvage, the Punta Cana shipwreck remains a significant resource with in situ wrought iron artillery and anchors and possibly intact deposits that warrant protection and further investigation.