In a routine drilling operation off the northern coast of Israel, Energean, a natural gas company, made a remarkable discovery: a 3,300-year-old shipwreck resting 1.1 miles (1,800 meters) below the surface of the Mediterranean Sea. The Israel Antiquities Authority (IAA) announced this finding, noting it as the oldest shipwreck ever found in deep water and one of the earliest examples of long-distance maritime travel, challenging previous assumptions about ancient navigational capabilities.

Jacob Sharvit, the director of maritime archaeology for the IAA, highlighted the significance of the discovery, stating, “The discovery of this boat now changes our entire understanding of ancient mariner abilities.” Prior to this find, it was believed that ancient sailors during the late Bronze Age primarily navigated near the coast where they could rely on visible landmarks for navigation between ports.

The shipwreck, measuring between 39 to 45 feet (12 to 14 meters) in length, was discovered surrounded by numerous amphorae, ancient jars used for transporting goods. Significantly, it sank approximately 55 miles (90 kilometers) from Israel’s coastline, indicating that ancient mariners were capable of navigating and conducting trade over considerable distances from land.