The Potential of Marine Archaeological Resources for Cultural Tourism Development in Indonesia: Managing Techniques and Cases

Ira DILLENIA1 | L. P. A. Savitri CHITRA KUSUMA2
(Research and Development Center for Marine and Coastal Resources, 1Departement of Archaeology, University of Indonesia | 2Departement of Aquatic Resource Management, Bogor Agricultural University, Indonesia)

Keywords: archaeology, resource, cultural tourism development, managing techniques

Abstract:
Historically, Indonesian Archipelago was an important route of shipping and trade in its age, and it also had significant role and position in the World War II history. A variety of marine archaeological remains such as ancient shipwrecks, war airplanes, historical lighthouses and old harbors can be found in many coastal areas and waters in Indonesia. Marine archaeological sites are cultural heritage which represent one of the major type of tourism attractions that can be found in most parts of the world. Currently there are a lot of efforts on conservation and use of archaeological resources in many archaeological sites in the world and its designation as cultural heritage site. Marine archaeological resource is a significant aspect in Indonesian history. Related to cultural tourism development, various marine archaeological resources in Indonesia hold potentials for marine cultural tourism development. It is needed to understand the types, potentials and importance of marine archaeological resource available in Indonesia and how to manage them for marine cultural tourism development with properly. This paper will first offer a concept review of the potential of marine archaeological resources in the context of marine cultural tourism development. Then this paper will also offer case studies on assessment of marine archaeological resources as one type of cultural tourism attraction in Raja Ampat and Natuna, Indonesia. The methods used for identification and inventory of marine archaeological resources in both locations were archaeological method to prove findings, and observation of environmental parameters to understand the environmental conditions and further sites managing technique.