Monty Halls announced as Ambassador for the Protected Wreck Association
The Protected Wreck Association (PWAssoc) recently announced that renowned broadcaster, marine biologist and explorer Monty Halls has agreed to become its new Ambassador, marking an exciting step forward in raising awareness of the UK’s underwater cultural heritage.
The PWA is a UK-based organisation that supports and connects volunteer and professional maritime archaeologists, divers and heritage enthusiasts. Its members work to survey, monitor and research shipwrecks and underwater sites protected under the Protection of Wrecks Act 1973, helping to safeguard nationally significant heritage beneath our seas.
This announcement comes at a fitting time as the UK has recently marked National Volunteers’ Week, a nationwide celebration of the vital contribution volunteers make to communities and heritage. The Protected Wreck Association is built on the dedication of volunteer divers, researchers and enthusiasts who give their time to monitor, protect and share the stories of the UK’s underwater historic environment. Monty Halls’ appointment as Ambassador highlights and celebrates this collective effort, helping to shine a national spotlight on the invaluable role volunteers play in safeguarding our submerged cultural heritage for future generations.
Monty Halls brings a wealth of experience in marine conservation, exploration and public engagement. Known for his television work and expeditions, he has consistently championed the importance of understanding and protecting marine environments. His recent projects—including expeditions exploring the maritime heritage of the west coast of Scotland—demonstrate a strong alignment with the PWAssoc’s mission to promote and protect submerged cultural heritage.
The appointment follows a formal invitation from the PWAssoc, which highlighted Monty’s passion for conservation, storytelling and community engagement as a natural fit for the role.
As Ambassador, Monty Halls will support the PWA in:
- Raising public awareness of protected wreck sites across the UK
- Inspiring greater participation in maritime archaeology and citizen science
- Supporting outreach initiatives that connect communities with underwater heritage
- Promoting the cultural and environmental significance of historic wreck sites
The role is intentionally flexible, allowing Monty to contribute in ways that maximise impact—whether through public speaking, collaborative campaigns, or hands-on engagement with protected sites.
The PWAssoc also looks forward to welcoming Monty to future events, including its annual meeting held alongside the International Shipwreck Conference in Plymouth.
Monty Halls said:
“I am delighted to be an ambassador for the Protected Wreck Association. I am impressed by the dedication of their members to investigating and protecting our shared underwater cultural heritage and look forward to finding more about protected wreck sites around the UK”
Alison James, on behalf of the Protected Wreck Association, said:
“Monty’s passion for the sea, combined with his ability to bring marine stories to life for wide audiences, makes him an ideal Ambassador. We are thrilled to have his support in championing the UK’s incredible underwater heritage.”
Monty Halls’ appointment signals a renewed drive by the PWAssoc to elevate the profile of protected wreck sites and inspire a broader audience to value and protect the stories that lie beneath our waters.
