Maritime archaeologist and BBC Oceans presenter Prof Lucy Blue has been appointed President of the Nautical Archaeology Society (NAS), following 14 years of service as Vice President.
She succeeds archaeologist and Time Team stalwart Phil Harding, who has held the position since 2004.
In her new role, Prof Blue will provide strategic leadership and act as a national and international ambassador for the Society. Working closely with the Board of Trustees, she will help shape the charity’s long-term vision and oversee the continued growth of its educational programmes and hands-on archaeological initiatives.
“I am delighted to continue supporting the Nautical Archaeology Society as President,” says Prof Blue. “The value of the Society’s work in protecting our underwater cultural heritage cannot be overstated.
“I would also like to extend my sincere thanks to Phil Harding for his dedication and commitment over the past two decades. Without the tireless efforts of the Society’s team and its members, countless historic wrecks – and the human stories they represent – would be lost forever.”
A central aspect of the role involves strengthening collaboration across the sector, bridging academia, professional archaeologists, recreational divers and volunteers who collectively support the Society’s mission.
Mark Beattie-Edwards, CEO of the Nautical Archaeology Society, comments: “As both an academic and educator, Lucy is exceptionally well placed to guide the Society as we continue to advance research in nautical archaeology, publish new findings and deliver high-quality training.
“Having been a member since the mid 1980s, a trustee since 1994, and serving as Chair before becoming Vice President in 2011, Lucy understands the realities of operating as a charitable organisation – from securing project funding to expanding public engagement in this fascinating discipline. Her experience and longstanding commitment will be invaluable as we broaden awareness of the Society’s work and extend its reach.”
Blue is Professor of Maritime Archaeology at the University of Southampton and has spent her career building maritime archaeological capacity across the Middle East and eastern Mediterranean. In 2008, she co-presented the eight-part BBC documentary series Oceans alongside adventurer Paul Rose, marine biologist Tooni Mahto and Philippe Cousteau, grandson of legendary explorer Jacques Cousteau.
Alongside her presidency at the Nautical Archaeology Society, Prof Blue co-directs the Arcadia-funded Endangered Maritime Archaeology in the Middle East and North Africa (MarEA) project and is the maritime archaeological director of the Honor Frost Foundation.
She is also a qualified British Sub-Aqua Club (BSAC) dive leader and a Health and Safety Executive (HSE) Part IV archaeological scuba diver.
