RPM Nautical Foundation (RPMNF) is a nonprofit archaeological research and educational organization dedicated to the advancement of maritime archaeology that includes littoral surveys and excavation of individual shipwreck and harbor sites.
RPM Nautical Foundation is organized within the meaning of sections 170(c)(2) and 501(c)(3) of the United States Internal Revenue Code. RPMNF has identified and researched Mediterranean countries. RPMNF's projects have recorded shipwreck sites and harbors in Spain, Albania,[1] Montenegro, Croatia, Malta, Morocco, Cyprus, Sicily, Amalfi and Calabria in Italy, Tunisia, and Turkey. RPMNF research vessel R/V Hercules is based in Valletta, Malta, during the winter months.
The foundation was established in 2001 by its president, George Robb,[2] who was a director for the Institute of Nautical Archaeology. It was established as a supporting institute for the institute's early fieldwork in Florida and selected projects in the Mediterranean.
In 2003, Jeff Royal became archaeological director, and took over as executive director in 2011. At the end of 2010, RPMNF entered into an agreement and is a supporting institute for the Program in Maritime Studies at East Carolina University.