The BlueMED project developed underwater archaeological itineraries, based on the use of new methods for in situ protection, and new technologies for the enhancement of UCH including augmented reality (AR) for divers. The operation of the first visitable Underwater Archaeological Site in Greece, the classic shipwreck near the island of Peristera in Alonissos, took place in the summer of 2020, causing great interest and very positive reactions internationally. Additionally a Knowledge-Awareness Centre (KAC) was developed in Alonissos. It offers high-tech tools and 3D audio-visual displays to foster interactive learning for visitors of all ages and abilities. Yet, it’s the exclusive virtual reality dive that brings the centre to new heights. It transports the user to the seabed to get up close with marine life and to see the shipwreck like never before. These were accomplished with the use of innovative services and technologies of the Underwater Museum, the Augmented Diving System designed to enhance the guest experience, the Tablet Application for Underwater Navigation and Guide, an underwater self-powered system (“NOUS”) that provides a real-time image of the wreck and software applications developed in the Knowledge-Awareness Centre such as Dry-Visit, Virtual Museum, the app for Marine Biology and the video installation.

The Underwater Museums are an important factor in enhancing tourism for the Region of Thessaly. In this context, the NSRF financed the Operational Plan for the construction of "Underwater Museums and Diving Parks in the Sporades Islands and the Western Pagasitikos". After the experience gained during the implementation of the Underwater Museum of Alonissos, the country had to accomplish significant changes in the legal framework, which "paved" the way for the operation of Underwater Museums in other parts of Greece. It should be noted that such a thing was attempted for the first time in Greece in the context of the project at Peristera shipwreck in Alonissos. The preservation protocol adopted in the Underwater Museum of Alonnisos, is wide enough to address common issues in preservation, marine protection, diving services, operation of underwater museums, and can be transferable to other Mediterranean regions. Find out more here.