With preface by ex-President of South Africa, nobel prize winner F.W de Klerk.

In the territorial waters of South Africa, the remains of at least 52 ships of the United Dutch East India Company (VOC) can be found. This figure represents nearly a quarter of all the vessels that foundered during the nearly two centuries of the Company’s existence. Table Bay alone is the repository of more than 25 VOC shipwrecks, although most of these have not been found as yet.

As these ships maintained contacts between different continents, their history is not only of national importance. Furthermore, the wrecks of these vessels can reveal finds that offer an intimate look into 17th and 18th century shipboard life, or the trade goods that linked European, African and Asian economies.

In The shipwrecks of the Oosterland and Waddinxveen, maritime archaeologist and historian Dr Bruno Werz describes the foundering of these VOC ships in Table Bay. Since 1990, the wrecks of the vessels are being studied in intimate detail. During this process, historical and archaeological evidence is combined, whereby use is made of archival documents and finds that have been excavated under water.

The project has led to results that are of global importance. An example of this is the discovery of the oldest man-made objects ever recovered from under the sea. The excavations also resulted in a more accurate dating of different kinds of Asiatic ceramics. This book describes in detail the first scientific maritime archaeological project that has ever been undertaken in southern Africa. In addition, the study is important from an educational perspective, and provides a valuable contribution to a better understanding of the underwater cultural heritage.

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Comments on the book in Dutch newspapers and other publications

“Werz’ fascinating story of the discovery of the shipwrecks and their meticulous excavation and research make this book a desirable publication for anyone who is interested in things maritime”
Eendracht

“In this publication, Werz describes in detail the first scientific maritime archaeological project that was undertaken in southern Africa. The clear structure and the beautiful illustrations make this book an absolute must”
Archeobrief

“… Werz (…) explicitly champions the cause of the young discipline of maritime archaeology in South Africa and sounds its accomplishments”
Itinerario

“… this book illustrates the value of Maritime Archaeology”
Tijdschrift voor Zeegeschiedenis

“… a captivating and beautifully illustrated book …”
Nederlands Archievenblad

“Werz dived on many ships and excavated precious items that provide a good impression of past life and the cargoes that were transported. He wrote a magnificent book with many illustrations …”
Noordvaarder