The Society was chartered in 1972 as a non-profit organization for educational and research purposes and is tax-exempt under IRS regulation 501-C-3.

The objectives and purposes of the Society center on search, salvage, and scientific expeditions as well as research (historical and scientific) and education in all of the marine sciences. These initiatives are done entirely through the Society or in partnership with outside individuals and organizations. The Society also maintains a general membership of students, educators, researchers, divers, and enthusiasts who would like to stay in touch with the Society and in some cases actively partici...

The objectives and purposes of the Society center on search, salvage, and scientific expeditions as well as research (historical and scientific) and education in all of the marine sciences. These initiatives are done entirely through the Society or in partnership with outside individuals and organizations. The Society also maintains a general membership of students, educators, researchers, divers, and enthusiasts who would like to stay in touch with the Society and in some cases actively participate in our initiatives. Part of our overall goal is the creation of an educational research facility (devoted to the study of underwater archaeology, oceanography, marine biology, meteorology, and related arts and sciences), a marine history museum, and a research library.