Robert Ballard Biography

Robert D. Ballard is an oceanographer and retired U.S. Navy commander known for his contributions to underwater exploration and marine science. Ballard is recognized for locating the wreck of the RMS Titanic and has also identified the German battleship Bismarck, the USS Yorktown from the Battle of Midway, the lost fleet of Guadalcanal, and John F. Kennedy’s patrol boat PT-109. His use of deep-diving submersibles such as Alvin and remotely operated vehicles has influenced the field of deep-sea archaeology, enabling detailed mapping and imaging of the ocean floor.

Ballard’s scientific work includes the discovery of hydrothermal vents and black smokers off the Galápagos Rift and East Pacific Rise. These undersea volcanic features revealed ecosystems powered by chemosynthesis, independent of sunlight, and contributed to new understandings of marine geology and the origins of life. Through expeditions such as Project Famous on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, Ballard advanced research on ocean floor dynamics and seawater composition, demonstrating expertise in oceanography and marine technology.

Ballard has also contributed to the development of telepresence technology, creating systems for real-time undersea observation and enabling global collaboration on ocean exploration. He founded the JASON Project to promote student engagement in science and established ocean exploration initiatives aboard the research vessel E/V Nautilus. His memoir, "Into the Deep: A Memoir From the Man Who Found Titanic," provides insight into his work in deep-sea exploration.

Drawing from more than 155 expeditions, Ballard shares narratives that highlight technological innovation and discoveries in marine science. His presentations communicate complex scientific concepts to a broad audience, reflecting his experience in ocean exploration, deep-sea archaeology, and marine geology.

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Speaker profile last updated by AAE Talent Team on 04/09/2026.

Robert Ballard Speaking Topics

  • Adventures in Deep Sea Exploration: Living the Dream.

    Dr. Robert Ballard, President of the Institute for Exploration at Mystic Aquarium in Mystic, Connecticut and Director of the Institute for Archaeological Oceanography at the University of Rhode Island's Graduate School of Oceanography, is best known for his 1985 discovery of the Titanic. Ballard is now using advanced technology to create a new field of research in deep water archaeology. At the Institute for Exploration's Challenge of the Deep exhibit hall, as well as with his Jason Foundation for Education, Ballard hopes to inspire young people to pursue learning in science, math, and technology through exploration and discovery. This past summer he used satellite and internet technologies to bring thousands of students around the world into direct contact with his team while on location in the Black Sea and Mediterranean Sea.

    In his talk, through the use of stunning high quality images and personal accounts, Dr. Ballard will present his most recent work in deep water archaeology and the technology of tele-presence. He discusses motivating people to think outside the box, learning how to deal with failure-that failure is just a step along the way to success, motivating children to choose careers in math, science and engineering; and how to live your dream. Ballard is a dynamic speaker who will have your audience on the edge of their seats wanting to start a whole new career in exploration!

  • Deep Sea Exploration

    Dr. Ballard shares his conclusions of his numerous expeditions to search for, locate and document sites of historical significance and the emerging science of deep water archeology.

    "An Evening of Exploration with Dr. Robert Ballard" "Thinking out of the box and taking risks to achieve long-term goals." "Where are the Boundaries of Achievement? : Push the Envelope" "Great Goals Require a Team to Achieve" "Hire People Smarter Than Yourself" "Your Dreams and Passions Provide you with the Motivation" "Overcome Failure to find Success." "Life is Not Failure Avoidance"

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Robert Ballard Videos

Exploring America's Last Fronteir | Robert Ballard ...

Exploring America's Last Fronteir | Robert Ballard ...

Did you know that 95% of the human race lives on less than 5% of the earth? In this talk, Robert Ballard describes the importance of ocean ...

Robert Ballard | TEDxURI ...

Robert Ballard | TEDxURI ...

The new age of ocean exploration

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  • What topics does Robert Ballard speak about?

  • Where does Robert Ballard travel from?

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Robert Ballard is a keynote speaker and industry expert who speaks on a wide range of topics such as Adventures in Deep Sea Exploration: Living the Dream., Deep Sea Exploration, The Personal Account of How the Titanic Was Found, and a Look into the Future and Living the Dream. The estimated speaking fee range to book Robert Ballard for your event is $30,000 - $50,000. Robert Ballard generally travels from CT, USA and can be booked for (private) corporate events, personal appearances, keynote speeches, or other performances. Similar motivational celebrity speakers are Alexandra Cousteau, Erin Brockovich, Alex Honnold, Dan Buettner and Doc Hendley. Contact All American Speakers for ratings, reviews, videos and information on scheduling Robert Ballard for an upcoming live or virtual event.

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