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Those who appreciate stunning underwater photographs of marine life will enjoy presentations by renowned photographer Andrew Martinez and others during a five-day, four-night conference on Star Island, six miles off the New Hampshire coast. The special event entitled “Under the Amazing Sea at the Isles of Shoals” runs from June 23 to 27 and is open to the public. (Continued below)

Martinez, whose photographs have been used by Audubon, Smithsonian, and National Geographic Society, will share his exquisite underwater images and the stories of how they were captured. Other experts will present information on shipwrecks, marine mammals, New England fisheries, remotely operated vehicles, and the network of buoys that collect real-time data on ocean temperature and salinity.

Optional hands-on activities from tide pooling to snorkeling, a candlelit service in the 212-year-old chapel, and social gatherings will round out the five days of programs. An optional side trip will visit nearby Appledore Island, where poet Celia Thaxter once presided over her famous garden and salon, and rowboats provide access to Smuttynose Island, the site of notorious 19th-century murders as well as recent archeological digs.

Attendees will stay in rustic yet comfortable accommodations in the historic Oceanic Hotel and surrounding buildings on Star Island. Round-trip boat transportation is provided from Portsmouth on Saturday afternoon, June 23, returning midday Wednesday, June 27. There is a seven-night option for attendees who wish to remain on the island through Saturday, June 30.

Conference registration is $100 per person plus a $100 deposit toward room and board. Total room and board for five days (four nights) starts at $445 per person (depending on type of room), including round-trip ferry and all meals. Families are welcome, with reduced rates for children under 18. The nonprofit Isles of Shoals Historical and Research Association (ISHRA) is the conference sponsor.

Reservations are now being accepted as long as places remain available. For information visit ishra.org or call 617-334-5675.