ODYSSEY MARINE EXPLORATION INC - Annual Report: 2012 (Form 10-K)

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UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-K

(Mark one)

Commission File Number 001-31895

ODYSSEY MARINE EXPLORATION, INC.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

5215 W. Laurel Street, Tampa, Florida 33607

(Address of principal executive offices)

(813) 876-1776

(Registrant’s telephone number including area code)

Securities registered pursuant Section 12(b) of the Act:

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: None

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act.    Yes  ¨    No  x

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Securities Act.    Yes  ¨    No  x

Indicate by mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.    Yes  x    No  ¨

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).    Yes  x    No  ¨

Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of registrant’s knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K.  x

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act).    Yes  ¨    No  x

The aggregate market value of the 69 million shares of voting stock held by non-affiliates of Odyssey Marine Exploration, Inc. as of June 30, 2012 was approximately $255 million. As of February 26, 2013, the Registrant had 77,466,851 shares of Common Stock outstanding.

DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE

The information required by Part III of this Form 10-K is incorporated by reference to the Company’s Definitive Proxy Statement for the Registrant’s Annual Meeting of the Shareholders to be held on June 5, 2013.

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As used in this Annual Report on Form 10-K, “we,” “us,” “our company” and “Odyssey” mean Odyssey Marine Exploration, Inc. and our subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise.

PART I

This Annual Report on Form 10-K contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Act of 1934. The statements regarding Odyssey Marine Exploration, Inc. and its subsidiaries contained in this report that are not historical in nature, particularly those that utilize terminology such as “may,” “will,” “should,” “likely,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “estimates,” “believes,” “plans,” or comparable terminology, are forward-looking statements based on current expectations and assumptions, and entail various risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in such forward-looking statements.

Important factors known to us that could cause such material differences are identified in this report and in our “RISK FACTORS” in Item 1A. Accordingly, readers of this Annual Report on Form 10-K should consider these factors in evaluating, and are cautioned not to place undue reliance on, the forward-looking statements contained herein. We undertake no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.

ITEM 1. BUSINESS

Overview

Odyssey Marine Exploration, Inc. is a world leader in deep-ocean exploration. The company’s innovative search techniques are currently being applied to historic shipwreck projects, modern commodity shipwrecks, and mineral exploration.

Odyssey has extensive experience discovering historic shipwreck sites in the deep ocean and conducting archaeological excavations with remotely operated vehicles (ROVs). Odyssey’s historic shipwreck discoveries include the SS Republic, HMS Victory, “Black Swan,” La Marquise de Tourny, and many other unidentified shipwrecks. In 2012 we set a record for the deepest and heaviest cargo recovery from a shipwreck during our commodity salvage work on the SS Gairsoppa shipwreck with the recovery of 48 tons of silver from a site over 15,000 feet deep. In 2010, we began to leverage our core business expertise and technology for deep-ocean mineral exploration. Our expeditions in partnerships with Neptune Minerals and Chatham Rock Phosphate have resulted in the discovery of significant potentially valuable ore bodies and resource analyses and equity positions in both companies. We have also begun to develop other deep-ocean mineral projects and are the majority owner of Oceanica, a Panamanian company in which we acquired a majority interest in February 2013. Oceanica, through a wholly owned subsidiary, has an exclusive mineral permits for an area believed to feature a valuable mineral resource.

We employ state-of-the-art technology, including side-scan sonar, multi-beam bathymetry, magnetometers, remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), and other advanced equipment that enables us to locate shipwrecks and natural resource sites at depths that were previously unreachable in an economically feasible manner. Odyssey continues to build on a foundation of shipwreck and geological research, government relationship development and the pioneering of techniques in deep-ocean exploration. Although we utilize technologies that have been developed at great expense in other fields, primarily the military, oil and telecommunications industries, we use our deep-ocean experience to modify and customize these technologies to create proprietary applications specific to our exploration and recovery needs.

Our shipwreck projects go through several phases, beginning with research of historical records and academic materials to establish potential target sites for search operations. Sites that meet our criteria are selected for exploratory search which may last as long as several years. If and when historic target sites are identified, we undertake an archaeological pre-disturbance survey and archaeological excavation, followed by conservation, recording, documentation, and publication/exhibition. If and when a modern commodity target is identified, surgical removal of deck plates or ship’s structure may be necessary to obtain access to the cargo to be salvaged. Commercial monetization of recovered cargo is conducted under established Admiralty Law or contract with sovereign nation governments.

The Odyssey team shares the knowledge gained through our expeditions with the world. We share this information through a variety of media including television, the Internet, books, research papers, periodicals, educational programs and traveling exhibits. We maintain several Internet sites including www.odysseymarine.com, www.odysseyminerals.com, www.shipwreck.net, www.odysseysvirtualmuseum.com and www.shipwreckstore.com. We also allow collectors to own a piece of history from a shipwreck’s cargo by offering select duplicate items, artifact replicas and collectibles that provide an opportunity for everyone interested in shipwrecks to participate in Odyssey’s fascinating discoveries at the level of their choice. Information that is included on or linked to our Internet sites is not considered part of this Annual Report.

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SHIPWRECKS: Shipwreck Project and Research Criteria

The United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organization, or UNESCO, has estimated that there are approximately 3,000,000 shipwrecks contained within the oceans of the world. Historical records suggest that many were lost with verifiable cargoes of intrinsically valuable material. Odyssey’s research department maintains data on thousands of shipwrecks and continuously develops new potential projects.

Project research may focus on a particular search area where historical documents suggest recorded and unrecorded high-value targets may rest due to the proximity of shipping routes frequented by vessels carrying rich cargoes.

Each project that targets a specific shipwreck begins with the research necessary to evaluate the potential value, location and likelihood of finding the wreck. Research is also necessary to establish the historical significance of the sunken ship and helps define the context in which the ship sank—essential for preparing an archaeological project plan and the complex logistics that precede excavation of a site.

Our marine research department continuously conducts research in an attempt to identify shipwreck projects that meet the following criteria:

Search Operations

Shipwreck search operations are conducted from a research vessel fitted with survey equipment and often with a Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV). Odyssey’s ships can conduct deep-sea search operations 24 hours a day, seven days a week and have been deployed throughout the world - in the English Channel, the Mediterranean Sea, and the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. A search typically begins with a side-scan sonar survey of the target area, which is usually paired with a magnetometer survey and multi-beam bathymetric surveys in some cases. The most interesting anomalies on the ocean floor are then inspected visually with an ROV, which sends real-time video images to monitors on the survey vessel for observation by the scientific and technical teams. These images are also downloaded and saved for additional evaluation ashore. Sometimes, it is immediately obvious whether the inspected site is of interest or not - as in the case of geology, modern debris, or when coins or valuables are readily apparent on the site. In other instances, it may take additional research and return visits to a site to arrive at probable or positive identity and to determine the next step forward.

Archaeological Excavation and Recovery

Archaeological excavation and recovery operations are conducted on historic shipwreck sites and combine ROVs with sophisticated positioning systems, cameras and specialized computer hardware and software to carefully record the location of artifacts in situ and to document the entire archaeological process as the artifacts are recovered from a shipwreck site. As they conduct robotic archaeological operations at sites hundreds and sometimes thousands of feet below the ocean surface, Odyssey’s ROV pilots are directed by marine archaeologists aboard the recovery vessel.

The Odyssey Explorer, a 251-foot Class II dynamically positioning (DP) ship, serves as Odyssey’s principal state-of-the-art deep-ocean archaeological platform for shipwreck exploration. She carries fuel and stores for missions of up to 60 days, accommodates 42 crew members, including technicians, scientists and archaeologists, and has extensive onboard storage space for workshops, an archaeology laboratory, multiple cranes and a large A-frame for exceptional handling capability. When working on a project, operations are generally conducted 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

The centerpiece of Odyssey’s advanced robotic archaeology system is the ROV, which serves as the archaeologist’s eyes and hands in the deep ocean. Odyssey owns two work-class ROVs, nicknamed ZEUS and ZEUS II. The 200HP and 400 HP vehicles, respectively, are each approximately the size of a small truck; they stand about 10 feet high and weigh 8 tons. Driven by eight powerful hydraulic thrusters, they are rated to operate up to depths of 2,500 meters (8,200 ft.). Both ROVs have been custom-designed for deep-ocean archaeological survey and recovery operations, including visual inspection, pre-disturbance photographic and video documentation, scientific excavation and artifact recovery. (ZEUS II is currently being utilized to conduct deep-ocean mineral exploration and characterization work aboard the Dorado Discovery.)

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Conservation and Documentation

Shipwreck finds represent a diversity of objects made up of a variety of organic and inorganic materials, including metals, ceramics, glass, leather and other materials that are of cultural, historical, archaeological or educational value. Artifacts recovered from the ocean are generally impregnated with corrosive salts that can be very damaging to the object. In particular, a saltwater environment accelerates the corrosion processes of many metal artifacts. The salts must be removed and artifacts treated in a timely and judicious manner or they will deteriorate and lose their value as diagnostic specimens, museum display objects, or valuable collector’s pieces. Therefore, the conservation process is essential to maintaining the integrity of the artifacts as important relics of the past, and for what they may contribute to the historical record and offer to the general public through exhibits, private collections and publications. Every item recovered from a shipwreck site must go through a conservation process, which in some cases may require weeks, months, or even years depending on the artifact’s material make-up, the salinity of the water from where it was recovered, and the length of time it remained in the saltwater environment.

Sharing the Story

Odyssey is committed to sharing with the public the thrill and adventure of deep-ocean exploration as well as the historical and scientific knowledge and artifacts acquired from each shipwreck project. We provide an opportunity for collectors and anyone interested in shipwreck exploration to participate in Odyssey’s fascinating discoveries by owning select duplicate shipwreck artifacts, artifact replicas or collectibles. Odyssey also shares this information through a variety of media including television, the Internet, books, research papers, periodicals, educational programs and traveling exhibits. A few of these are described as follows:

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Sales and Marketing

Select artifacts considered “trade goods” (coins, bullion and other mass-produced cargo) are made available for sale to collectors only after conservation, thorough documentation and study. The cultural collection of artifacts is kept in our permanent collection for exhibit and further study or made available to museums or other institutions. Replicas are created of some of the permanent collection’s significant artifacts and are made available for sale to the public.

The recovery of coins and artifacts from the SS Republic required us to create a marketing plan specifically to sell these coins and artifacts. Initially, coins were sold to independent coin dealers who sold them through direct marketing and television outlets. The SS Republic silver coin program was re-developed in the first quarter of 2008 to take advantage of emerging research on the silver coins from the SS Republic. This included the release of the 1861-O silver half dollar issued by the State of Louisiana in between the time it seceded from the Union and when it joined the Confederate States of America. Additionally, Odyssey continued to expand distribution channels in recent years with a broader base of coin and collectible marketers, including opening markets overseas. Given the unique collector appeal of SS Republic coins was linked to the American Civil War, to date artifact sales including coins have been predominantly U.S. domestic-based even though we have distributors throughout the world.

The availability of raw materials is primarily dependent on the success of finding intrinsically valuable cargoes from shipwrecks. We recovered over 51,000 coins (approximately 4,000 $10 and $20 gold coins and 47,000 silver half dollars) and approximately 14,000 non-coin artifacts from the SS Republic. As of December 31, 2012, we have a remaining inventory of approximately 26,500 silver coins.

During 2012 and 2011, our primary source of revenue was from expedition charter services. In 2012, three customers, Chatham Rock Phosphate Ltd., JBR Recovery Limited and Galt Resources, LLC accounted for 88% of our revenue. In 2011, two customers, Neptune Minerals, Inc. and Robert Fraser Partners LLP accounted for 97% or our charter services revenue.

Archaeology and Science

Many of the shipwrecks we intend to pursue may have important historical and cultural characteristics. All historically or archaeologically significant projects undertaken will be subjected to stringent archaeological standards, thus adding to the body of knowledge of the people, the history and culture of the vessel’s time. Adherence to these principles is a core value of the Company, and in addition to satisfying international professional standards, will enhance shareholder value by increasing the economic value of the artifacts and intellectual property rights of each project.

Deep-Ocean Mineral Exploration

Odyssey has leveraged the expertise of the industry’s most experienced team of ocean explorers as well as leading deep-ocean technology to advance the science of exploration and assessment of seabed mineral deposits.

We have a long-term lease on the RV Dorado Discovery, a research vessel custom fitted to conduct deep-ocean mineral exploration. With this platform and specialized equipment, the Odyssey team has the capability to perform precision geophysical and geochemical surveys, detailed mapping, sampling, environmental assessments, drilling, and resource evaluations. The Dorado Discovery features survey, geological, exploration, technical and scientific labs as well as refrigerated sample and core storage.

There are three economically significant seabed minerals being explored by Odyssey:

Seafloor Massive Sulphides (SMS) - SMS deposits are found on the ocean floor and contain copper, zinc, gold, silver and other trace metals. SMS deposits are found in areas of active or complex tectonic or volcanogenic activity, such as near oceanic spreading centers (such as the Mid-Atlantic Ridge and East Pacific Rise), back-arc basins (such as the Manus Basin in PNG waters) and submarine arc volcanic chains (such as Kermadec Arc in New Zealand waters).

Phosphorites - Phosphorite deposits are mineral occurrences that are recovered primarily for their phosphate material. Phosphorites may be present on the seabed or in the stratigraphic column. Phosphate is an agriculturally important mineral used primarily for crop fertilization, though a variety of uses exist for phosphate and phosphorus, the significant element in phosphate. Phosphorites exist in a wide range of depositional environments. Several factors contribute to the formation of phosphorites, including a supply of phosphorus, present or pre-existing complex oceanographic circulation patterns, and a proper sedimentological setting. Generally, phosphorites are targeted on continental shelves and slopes, though phosphorites do occur on oceanic seabed features such as guyots (flat-topped seamounts).

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Polymetallic nodules - These nodular concretions are found on the seabed and consist of concentric layers of iron and manganese hydroxides. Nodules generally consist primarily of either manganese or iron. Manganese nodules can contain up to 30% manganese, while iron nodules generally contain a mixture of iron, silicon, and aluminum ore. Polymetallic nodules are found at the seabed interface in oceans worldwide. Nodules must exhibit proper metal content and exist in sufficient concentration to be of potential economic interest. Some areas hosting economically viable nodules include the Clarion-Clipperton Fracture Zone between Hawaii and Mexico, the Peru Basin, and the northern Indian Ocean.

We provide exploration services including geophysical and geotechnical assessments of seabed mineral deposits to companies, including Odyssey subsidiaries and companies in which Odyssey holds an equity position as well as governments around the world as a full-service contractor or as a resource development partner.

Operational Projects and Status

We have numerous shipwreck and other deep-ocean projects in various stages of development around the world. In order to protect the targets of our planned search or recovery operations, in some cases we will defer disclosing specific information relating to our projects until we have located a shipwreck or other potentially valuable resources of interest and determined a course of action to protect our property rights.

“Atlas” Search Project

Between 2005 and 2012, we searched more than 5,000 square nautical miles of seabed in the western English Channel and the Western Approaches to the Channel, recording approximately 300 shipwrecks. The shipwrecks discovered include site “35-F,” the Marquise de Tornay, and HMS Victory (1744) as well as other identified and unidentified shipwrecks. Additional high-value targets are believed to be within the “Atlas” search area. Operations in the “Atlas” search area during 2012 included additional search, inspection and verification work on several targets as well as pre-disturbance survey work on HMS Victory.

HMS Victory Project

In 2008, Odyssey discovered HMS Victory (lost 1744) and is, as recognized by the owner and under maritime law, salvor-in-possession of the wreck. After a period of joint consultation between the UK Ministry of Defense (MOD) and the UK Department for Culture, Media and Sport, and a public consultation period, the title to the HMS Victory was transferred to the Maritime Heritage Foundation in January 2012. The Foundation, a charity established to locate shipwrecks, investigate, recover and preserve artifacts to the highest archaeological standards and to promote knowledge and understanding of Britain’s maritime heritage, has now assumed responsibility for the future management of the wreck site. The Foundation has contracted with Odyssey to provide a full range of archaeological, recovery, conservation and other services.

Pursuant to an agreement with the Foundation, Odyssey has produced an extensive project design for the archaeological excavation of the site, including a complete plan for recording, documentation, conservation, publication and public education. The agreement calls for Odyssey’s project costs to be reimbursed and for Odyssey to be paid a percentage of the recovered artifacts’ fair value. The preferred option is for Odyssey to be compensated in cash.

A report was provided to the Foundation and the UK MOD that details monitoring of the site conducted by Odyssey and Wreck Watch International between 2008 and early 2012. The report includes evidence, including photographs, of additional damage to the site since 2008 caused by human and natural forces. This report was published in June 2012 and is available here http://shipwreck.net/victorypapers.php. We also provided a revised archaeological project design, developed as a result of the impact report, to the Maritime Heritage Foundation. This revised project design has been approved by the Foundation’s Scientific Advisory Committee, chaired by marine archaeologist Dr. Margaret Rule and, submitted to the UK MOD by the Maritime Heritage Foundation. On January 31, 2013, the Maritime Heritage Foundation received a response from the MOD in which it was acknowledged there is an identified threat to the Victory site. The letter also sets forth a set of Key Management Principles to be agreed prior to undertaking additional work on the site. We believe we have reached agreement on these management principles between Odyssey and the Foundation which would allow us to move forward on the project, while providing comfort to the Government and the MOD Advisory Group that proper archaeological principles will be adhered to through the course of the project. The Foundation will be submitting these to the MOD shortly. .

Reports detailing the phased archaeological operations at the shipwreck site will be provided to the Maritime Heritage Foundation after the completion of each phase.

While awaiting permission from the Maritime Heritage Foundation to move forward on the Victory project, the Odyssey Explorer has been in dry-dock completing an extensive refit and earlier in the season conducted search and target inspection operations in a section of the “Atlas” survey area, which is a continuation of our extensive survey of a large area in the English Channel and Western Approaches where a number of high-value shipwrecks have been lost throughout history.

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“Gairsoppa” Project

On January 25, 2010, Odyssey was awarded the exclusive salvage contract for the cargo of the SS Gairsoppa by the United Kingdom Government (UKG) Department for Transport. The contract was awarded after a competitive bid process. This contract has been extended to allow recovery operations to continue through 2013.

The SS Gairsoppa was a 412-foot steel-hulled British cargo ship that was torpedoed by a German U-boat in February 1941 while enlisted in the service of the UKG Ministry of War Transport. Contemporary research and official documents indicate that the ship was carrying £600,000 (1941 value) or up to 7 million total ounces of silver, including over 3 million ounces of private silver bullion insured by the UKG. The British Ministry of War Transport paid a War Risk Insurance Claim for £325,514 (in 1941 value) for 2,817 bars of silver that was reported to be on board the Gairsoppa when she sank. The UKG only paid this insurance on privately-owned cargo. Any cargo owned by the UKG would not have been insured through the War Risk Insurance Office.

Under the recovery contract, Odyssey assumes the risk, expense, and responsibility for the search, cargo recovery, documentation, and marketing of the cargo. Any monetary proceeds from the salvage will first be applied to reimbursement of Odyssey’s search, recovery and processing expenses. Any remaining monetary proceeds will next be divided with Odyssey retaining 80% of the net salved value, and 20% retained by the UKG.

Search operations began in July 2011. On September 26, 2011, we announced confirmation of the identity and location of the SS Gairsoppa approximately 300 miles southwest of Galway, Ireland, in waters approximately 4700 meters deep.

Initial recovery operations began aboard the MV Seabed Worker on June 4, 2012, and ended on September 23, 2012 due to deteriorating weather conditions in the North Atlantic and a previous commitment of the Seabed Worker to another charter. During 2012 operations, a total of 1,218 silver ingots, weighing approximately 1.4 million troy ounces, were recovered from the SS Gairsoppa, as well as several hundred artifacts which have been declared to the UKG Receiver of Wreck.

Odyssey anticipates that an additional 1,599 insured silver ingots, representing approximately 1.8 million ounces, and what could be a substantial amount of uninsured silver remain on the Gairsoppa site. We are planning to return to SS Gairsoppa in the second quarter of 2013 when weather conditions are appropriate and have executed a charter agreement with Swire Seabed to utilize the MV Seabed Worker beginning in May 2013.

The silver bullion recovered to date was refined and sold on the London Metals Exchange. The first sale occurred in September 2012 and continued thru January 2013. Over $41 million in proceeds have been received to date. In addition, over $600,000 in gold value was extracted as a by-product of the silver smelting process.

“Mantola” Project

Odyssey was also awarded the exclusive salvage contract for the cargo of the SS Mantola by the UKG Department for Transport. On October 10, 2011, we announced the discovery of the SS Mantola, which sank on February 9, 1917, after being torpedoed by German submarine U-81. Odyssey discovered the shipwreck approximately 2,500 meters beneath the surface of the northern Atlantic Ocean, approximately 100 miles from the SS Gairsoppa shipwreck.

In 1917, the British Ministry of War Transport paid a War Risk Insurance Claim for £110,000 (in 1917 value) for silver that was reported to be on board the Mantola when she sank. This sum would equate to more than 600,000 ounces of silver based on silver prices in 1917. In September 2011, the UK Government Department for Transport awarded Odyssey a salvage contract for the cargo of the SS Mantola. The terms and conditions are similar to the SS Gairsoppa salvage contract. Under the agreement, Odyssey will retain 80% of the net salved silver value recovered.

Operations on the Mantola were planned in conjunction with operations on the SS Gairsoppa under the umbrella of “North Atlantic Expedition 2012.” Operations on the Mantola were conducted to test ship and equipment capabilities as well as perform initial recovery efforts during 12 days early in the expedition. Recovery operations on the Mantola are planned to continue immediately after completion of Gairsoppa recovery operations during the 2013 season.

Commodity Wreck Program

On September 20, 2012, we announced project approval and salvage contracts from ship owners for a multi-year commodity shipwreck program with a potential total recovery value of more than $230 million based upon current commodity prices and related assumptions. The company has negotiated salvage contracts with ship owners that will award 90% of the net recovered cargo value to Odyssey for four separate deep-ocean shipwrecks carrying valuable commodities when they sank. There are additional valuable shipwrecks that do not require salvage agreements that can be added to the program and undertaken while Odyssey has a ship and equipment nearby.

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Planning is underway to assemble the necessary ship and equipment for the exploration, assessment and recovery of these cargoes, which is targeted to begin in 2013. The timing will depend on the availability of ships, the success and amount of ship time dedicated to the Gairsoppa and Mantola projects and other factors.

Robert Fraser Projects (RFP)

In September 2010, we executed agreements to provide supplementary project research and shipwreck search and survey services for a project code-named “Enigma II” with clients of RFP. (Our initial project with RFP, which began in November 2009 code-named “Enigma,” was completed in March 2010. Eight target sites were identified, including two sites that had some of the characteristics of the “Enigma” shipwreck. However, our subsequent analysis indicated that the sites were not the “Enigma.”) As part of the agreements for the “Enigma II” project, Odyssey furnished research related to the anticipated location of the “Enigma II” and agreed to provide the research vessel, equipment and crew to search a specified area and inspect targets in that area. Survey operations were completed in 2010. In January 2011, we executed agreements to provide additional marine archaeological excavation and related services on the “Enigma II” project to certain client companies of RFP. The contracts provides for work to be conducted on the shipwreck site that Odyssey discovered and inspected in order to verify the contents of the target shipwreck. The contract provides for cash payments totaling approximately U.S. $2.3 million to Odyssey (of which $2 million was received in 2011), plus additional payments based upon revenue derived from the project. After the repayment of all recovery costs, Odyssey will receive at least 50% of net revenue until an additional £1.9 million (approximately U.S. $3.0 million) has been received and then will receive a minimum of 50% of further net revenue in accordance with the search contracts. In November, 2012, Odyssey undertook a preliminary verification survey of the site and obtained organic samples from the site which have been analyzed by scientific laboratories to determine their age and origin. Preliminary results suggest that the target may be older than would be expected of the target shipwreck based on dating of wood samples from the site. Additional work on this project will be undertaken when conditions in the region are favorable and as dictated by the contract and/or the client companies of RFP.

In April 2011, we executed an agreement to provide marine services including mining exploration and drilling operations to client companies of RFP in a tenement area controlled by Dorado Ocean Resources (now Neptune Minerals, Inc.). The drilling will be conducted on a Seafloor Massive Sulfide (SMS) deposit that was surveyed by the Odyssey and Dorado teams during the first 100 days of exploration in Dorado’s South Pacific concession areas in 2010. The contract provides for preliminary cash payments totaling approximately U.S. $1.4 million to Odyssey plus additional payments based upon revenue derived from the project. After the repayment of mining costs, Odyssey will receive 50.2% of net revenue until an additional £3.7 million (approximately U.S. $5.9 million) has been received. Preliminary drilling operations which resulted in drilling of 8 holes were undertaken in November, 2012. The preliminary geological report from this operation did not indicate any commercially viable deposit in the areas that were drilled.

Subsea Mineral Mining Exploration Projects

We currently own 6.2 million shares of Neptune Minerals, a company focused on discovering and commercializing high-value mineral deposits. To date Neptune Minerals has been successful in attracting the investment capital required to fund mineral exploration expeditions and has initiated a drilling program on one of their highly prospective tenement areas. Neptune’s capital raise, completed in December 2011, was at $12 per share of Class B common stock. Neptune Minerals recently completed another private placement for approximately $17 million at $17.50 per share. Our current ownership is approximately 30%.

In May 2012, we received our final cash payment of $1 million for charter services from Chatham Rock Phosphates, Ltd. We also received 9.3 million shares of Chatham Rock Phosphates Ltd. common stock for charter services valued at $1.7 million (12.2 % of Chatham shares outstanding). Chatham Rock Phosphates Ltd. currently holds a license covering over 4,000 square kilometers off the coast of New Zealand believed to have significant seabed deposits of rock phosphate and other potentially valuable minerals. Since our share acquisition, the stock price has approximately doubled in value. Also, other major investors have acquired shares that have diluted our position to approximately 7.3%.

In February 2013, we disclosed Odyssey’s ownership interest, through Odyssey Marine Enterprises, Ltd., a wholly owned Bahamian company (“Enterprises”), in Oceanica Resources, S. de R.L., a Panamanian company (Oceanica). Odyssey initially held 77.6 million of Oceanica’s 100.0 million outstanding quotas (a unit of equity interest under Panamanian law). Subsequently, Enterprises sold and transferred to Mako Resources, LLC 15.0 million quotas for a purchase price of $1.00 per quota or $15 million and granted Mako options to purchase an additional 15.0 million quotas at the purchase price of $2.50 per quota before December 31, 2013. Oceanica is in the business of mineral exploration and controls exclusive permits for offshore mineral deposits in an area which is believed to feature a valuable mineral resource based on extensive exploratory activities undertaken by Odyssey. Preliminary resource assessments indicate that the concessions, which have been granted for a 50 year period to a wholly owned subsidiary of Oceanica, may prove to have significant economic and strategic value.

The Dorado Discovery is currently working on an environmental survey and mineral exploration project in the Pacific Ocean.

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Other Syndication Projects

In February 2011, Odyssey entered into a project syndication deal with Galt Resources LLC (Galt). Odyssey received $7.5 million in cash from Galt to fund working capital of ongoing exploratory search operations for target projects. In return Galt received the rights to future revenues of selected project(s) equaling their initial investment plus three times the investment, which will be paid out of proceeds of the project(s). In addition, Galt will share in the future net proceeds of the selected project at the rate of 1% for every million invested. In January 2012, Odyssey and Galt agreed to bifurcate Galt’s selection between two projects, the SS Gairsoppa and HMS Victory. Galt has received two times its initial investment of $7,512,500 from Odyssey’s proceeds from the SS Gairsoppa and will receive no further disbursements from the project. Galt received $2.5 million in November 2012 and the remaining $12.5 million in February 2013. Galt will also receive 50% of Odyssey’s net proceeds, if any, on the HMS Victory project until Galt receives two times its initial investment and thereafter will receive 7.5125% of Odyssey’s net proceeds from the HMS Victory project.

HMS Sussex Project

On September 27, 2002, we entered into an agreement with the Government of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, which we refer to as Her Majesty’s Government (HMG), which allows us to conduct an archaeologically sensitive exploration of the shipwreck believed to be HMS Sussex and to recover artifacts from the shipwreck site. The agreement provided for us to submit a Project Plan to HMG concerning the equipment, personnel and methodologies we intend to use in the exploration of the shipwreck, and the conservation and documentation of any artifacts and cargo that may be recovered. This Plan was submitted and approved. We began exploration of the site during December 2005.

As a sovereign warship, HMS Sussex remains the property of HMG which, to our knowledge, has not been contested by the Spanish government or other entities. As part of the partnering agreement signed between Odyssey and HMG in 2002, the following sharing arrangements have been agreed upon with respect to the aggregate amount of the appraised values and/or selling prices of the artifacts, net of agreed selling expenses:

Our agreement with HMG is for a period of 20 years, and can only be terminated if:

The project has been delayed due to interference in Odyssey’s operations off the coast of Gibraltar by the Spanish Autonomous Region of Andalucía and the “Black Swan” project. See “Black Swan” in the next section.

Admiralty Legal Proceedings

“Black Swan” Arrest

The Eleventh Circuit Court of Appeals upheld the dismissal of the case by the United States Federal District Court for the Middle District of Florida finding no subject matter jurisdiction under the Foreign Sovereign Immunities Act. Without concluding that the coins and artifacts recovered were owned by the Kingdom of Spain, the Court upheld the order to transfer all property to Spain based upon a finding that it was once carried aboard the Nuestra Senora de Las Mercedes, a Spanish naval vessel. The United States Supreme Court declined to hear the case. On February 23, 2012, Odyssey complied with the Court’s order by transferring the coins and artifacts to Spain. On April 16, 2012, Spain filed a motion with the district court for an award of fees and costs related to the case. On November 15, 2012, the district court Magistrate Judge entered a Report and Recommendation recommending that Spain be awarded fees and costs, but only those incurred after dismissal of the case from February 10, 2012 to March 20, 2012, related to the transfer of artifacts held in Gibraltar. Odyssey objected to the Report and Recommendation and Spain also filed an objection, again seeking fees and costs for the entire case. Counsel for Spain filed an affidavit in the case claiming approximately $95,000 in fees and costs related to the Gibraltar artifacts and $3.2 million in total fees and costs. A hearing on this matter was held on February 5, 2013, without resolution. Odyssey has filed an affidavit disputing the fees claimed by Spain. The court has taken the matter under consideration.

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All of Odyssey’s significant filings to-date, including those made at the district court level, can be viewed at http://www.shipwreck.net/blackswanlegal.php.

Unidentified Shipwreck (Bray Case)

On August 15, 2012, the district court dismissed this case once again, finding that the Plaintiff had failed to state a cause of action upon which relief could be granted. The Plaintiff has appealed the dismissal with the Eleventh Circuit, and Odyssey has filed its Response. We will continue to vigorously defend against what we consider to be a frivolous claim.

Legal and Political Issues

Odyssey works with a number of leading international maritime lawyers and policy experts to constantly monitor international legal initiatives that might affect our projects. As a matter of policy, we begin with the assumption that some entity, whether a government, private concern or insurance company, may have some rights to shipwrecks that are slated for search and recovery operations. Based on this assumption, a rigorous legal analysis is undertaken in order to ascertain which entities might be able to create roadblocks to a successful project. In some cases, such as that of HMS Sussex, it was determined that the most prudent mechanism for moving forward was to negotiate a contract with the owner of the vessel in order to manage the litigation risk.

In other cases, such as the SS Republic project, we entered into an agreement whereby we purchased the insurance company’s interest in the shipwreck and cargo, opening the way for an immediate grant of title to Odyssey by the federal court that had jurisdiction.

To the extent that we engage in shipwreck search and recovery activities in the territorial, contiguous or exclusive economic zones of countries, Odyssey intends to comply with verifiable applicable regulations and treaties. Prior to beginning operations for any project, the legal and political aspects are carefully researched to ascertain what effect these issues may have on the potential success of the operation.

These factors are taken into account in determining whether to proceed with a project as planned. Other factors, such as the UNESCO Convention for the Protection of Underwater Cultural Heritage are also taken into consideration. New political initiatives such as this Convention could require compliance with additional cultural resource management guidelines and regulations. Some of these will require adherence to strict archaeological practices and we intend to follow reasonable guidelines in all projects to which they are applicable. Greg Stemm, Odyssey’s Chief Executive Officer and co-founder, was a member of the United States delegation that negotiated the UNESCO Convention, and as such provides us with a thorough understanding of the underlying principles and ramifications of the Convention, and advance notice of other cultural resource management issues that might affect our projects.

The UNESCO Convention is not expected to impact operations in international waters, and the United States, the United Kingdom and other major maritime governments have already stated explicitly that they do not intend to sign the Convention. Nevertheless, some countries in whose waters we may consider working may sign or have already signed the Convention. While the UNESCO Convention states that artifacts may not be sold, it also states that this prohibition may not prevent the provision of archaeological services, and we intend to provide such services in contracts with governments.

We believe there will be increased interest in the protection of underwater cultural heritage throughout the oceans of the world. We are uniquely qualified to provide governments and international agencies with resources to help manage these resources while providing the public with educational, scientific, historical and entertainment initiatives that originate from our shipwreck exploration activities.

Competition

There are a number of companies that publicly identify themselves as engaged in aspects of the shipwreck business, but they do not compete directly with us as an established deep-ocean archaeological shipwreck exploration company. These entities include, but are not limited to Blue Water Ventures, Mel Fisher’s Treasures, Deep Blue Marine, Marine Exploration, Inc., Oceanic Research and Recovery, Seafarer Exploration, Deep6 Ltd., Sub Sea Research, Earth Dragon Resources and UnderSea Recovery Corporation. It is possible that one of these companies or some currently unknown group may locate and recover a shipwreck on our project roster; however, due to the breadth of our historical and archival research, the already completed sonar and deep-water ROV inspection efforts, and the number of shipwreck projects in various stages of development, we do not believe that competition from one or more of these entities, known or unknown, would materially affect our operating plan or alter our current business strategy.

There are a number of companies that publicly identify themselves as engaged in aspects of deep-ocean mineral exploration or mining including Nautilus Minerals (NUS.TO), Neptune Minerals, and Chatham Rock Phosphate (CRP.NZ) as well as countries that are exploring options to utilize deep-ocean mineral resources. As our mineral exploration business plan includes acting as a mineral resources development partner, we view these entities as potential partners rather than pure competitors. As mineral rights are generally granted on an exclusive basis for a specific area or tenement, once licenses are

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granted we do not anticipate any competitive intrusion on those areas. It is possible that one of these companies or some currently unknown group may secure licenses on an area desired by Odyssey or one of our partners; but since exploration work does not start until licenses are secured, we do not believe that competition from one or more of these entities, known or unknown, would materially affect our operating plan or alter our current business strategy.

Cost of Environmental Compliance

With the exception of vessel operations and conservation activities, our general business operations do not expose us to environmental risks or hazards. We carry insurance that provides a layer of protection in the event of an environmental exposure resulting from the operation of our vessels. The cost of such coverage is minimal on an annual basis. We believe the risk associated with our conservation activities is minimal.

Executive Officers of the Registrant

The names, ages and positions of all the executive officers of the Company as of March 1, 2013 are listed below.

Gregory P. Stemm (age 55) has served as Chief Executive Officer since January 3, 2008 and served as Chairman of the Board from 2008 to 2010. Mr. Stemm previously served as Vice President, Research and Operations and as a member of the Board of Directors since May 1994. He served as Co-Chairman of the Board since February 24, 2006 until his present appointment.

Mark D. Gordon (age 52) has served as President and Chief Operating Officer since October 2007 and was appointed to the Board of Directors in January 2008. Previously Mr. Gordon served as Executive Vice President of Sales and Business Development since January 2007 after joining Odyssey as Director of Business Development in June 2005. Prior to joining Odyssey, Mr. Gordon owned and managed four different ventures (1987-2003).

Michael J. Holmes (age 63) The Company announced that Michael J. Holmes, Odyssey’s Chief Financial Officer, has advised the board of directors and senior management that he intends to retire during 2013 to complete his Masters of Theology and his diaconate formation. The Company will initiate a formal search for a successor, and Mr. Holmes will remain as CFO until a successor is retained; thereafter, consulting in a transitional role as necessary. Prior to his upcoming retirement, he has served as Chief Financial Officer since May 2004. Mr. Holmes joined Odyssey as Controller in March 2004 and had previously served in a variety of financial management positions with Anheuser-Busch Companies, Inc. including Vice President Finance, Sea World Orlando (1998-2003).

Jay A. Nudi (age 49) has served as Principal Accounting Officer since January 2006 and joined Odyssey as Controller in May 2005. Mr. Nudi assumed the additional responsibilities of Treasurer in May 2010. Prior to joining Odyssey, Mr. Nudi served as Controller for The Axis Group in Atlanta (2003-2004).

Laura L. Barton (age 50) was appointed as Executive Vice President and Director of Communications in June 2012 and formerly served at Vice President and Director of Corporate Communications from November 2007 to June 2012. Ms. Barton previously served as Director of Corporate Communications and Marketing for Odyssey since July 2003. Ms. Barton was previously President of LLB Communications, a marketing and communications consulting company whose customers included a variety of television networks, stations and distributors and the Company (1994-2003).

Melinda J. MacConnel (age 48) was appointed as Executive Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary in June 2012 and formerly served as Vice President and General Counsel from 2008 to June 2012. She joined Odyssey in March 2006 as a Legal Consultant and became Odyssey’s General Counsel in January 2007. Prior to joining the Company, Ms. MacConnel practiced law as a Litigation Consultant, providing counsel to attorneys in all areas of law.

Employees

As of December 31, 2012, we had 43 full-time employees, most working from our corporate offices in Tampa, Florida. Additionally, we contract personnel who operate our vessels and technicians who perform marine survey and recovery operations on our vessels and from time to time we hire subcontractors and consultants to perform specific services.

Internet Access

Odyssey’s Forms 10-K, 10-Q, 8-K and all amendments to those reports are available without charge through Odyssey’s web site on the Internet as soon as reasonably practicable after they are electronically filed with, or furnished to, the Securities and Exchange Commission. They may be accessed as follows: www.shipwreck.net (SEC Filings Link).

You should carefully consider the following factors, in addition to the other information in this Annual Report on Form 10-K, in evaluating our company and our business. Our business, operations and financial condition are subject to

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various risks. The material risks are described below, and should be carefully considered in evaluating Odyssey or any investment decision relating to our securities. This section is intended only as a summary of the principal risks. If any of the following risks actually occur, our business, financial condition, or operating results could suffer. If this occurs, the trading price of our common stock could decline, and you could lose all or part of the money you paid to buy our common stock.

Our business involves a high degree of risk.

An investment in Odyssey is extremely speculative and of exceptionally high risk. Although we have access to a substantial amount of research and data which has been compiled regarding various shipwreck projects, the quality and reliability of such research and data is uncertain. Even if we are able to plan and obtain permits for our various projects, there is a possibility that the shipwrecks may have already been salvaged or may not be found, or may not have had anything valuable on board at the time of the sinking. Even if objects of value are located and recovered, there is the possibility that the excavation cost will exceed the value of the objects recovered or those others, including both private parties and governmental entities, will assert conflicting claims and challenge our rights to the recovered objects. Finally, even if we are successful in locating and retrieving objects from a shipwreck and establishing title to them, there are no assurances as to the value that such objects will bring at their sale, as the market for such objects is uncertain.

The research and data we use may not be reliable.

The success of a shipwreck project is dependent to a substantial degree upon the research and data we have obtained. By its very nature, research and data regarding shipwrecks can be imprecise, incomplete and unreliable. It is often composed of or affected by numerous assumptions, rumors, legends, historical and scientific inaccuracies and misinterpretations which have become a part of such research and data over time.

Operations may be affected by natural hazards.

Underwater recovery operations are inherently difficult and dangerous and may be delayed or suspended by weather, sea conditions or other natural hazards. Further, such operations may be undertaken more safely during certain months of the year than others. We cannot guarantee that we, or the entities we are affiliated with, will be able to conduct search and recovery operations during favorable periods. In addition, even though sea conditions in a particular search location may be somewhat predictable, the possibility exists that unexpected conditions may occur that adversely affect our operations. It is also possible that natural hazards may prevent or significantly delay search and recovery operations.

We may be unable to establish our rights to any objects we recover.

Persons and entities other than Odyssey and entities we are affiliated with (both private and governmental) may claim title to the shipwrecks and/or valuable cargo that we may recover. Even if we are successful in locating and recovering shipwrecks and/or valuable cargo, we cannot assure we will be able to establish our right to property recovered if challenged by governmental entities, prior owners, or other attempted salvors claiming an interest therein. In such an event we could spend a great deal of time and money on a shipwreck project, and receive no salvage claim or revenue for our work.

The market for any objects we recover is uncertain.

Even if valuable items can be located and recovered in the future, it is difficult to predict the price that might be realized for such items. The value of recovered items will fluctuate with the precious metals market, which has been highly volatile in past years. In addition, the entrance on the market of a large supply of similar items from shipwrecks and/or valuable cargo located and recovered by others could depress the market.

We could experience delays in the disposition or sale of recovered objects.

The methods and channels that may be used in the disposition or sale of recovered items are uncertain at present and may include several alternatives. Ready access to buyers for any artifacts or other valuable items recovered cannot be guaranteed. Delays in the disposition of such items could adversely affect our cash flow.

Legal, political or civil issues could interfere with our marine operations.

Legal, political or civil initiatives of countries and/or major maritime governments could restrict access to our operational marine sites or interfere with our marine operations.

Objects we recover could be stolen from us.

If we locate a shipwreck and assert a valid claim to items of value, there is a risk of theft of such items at sea by “pirates” or poachers before or after the recovery or while in transit to a safe destination as well as when stored in a secured location. Such thefts may not be adequately covered by insurance.

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We may be unable to get permission to conduct salvage operations.

It is possible we will not be successful in obtaining title or permission to excavate certain wrecks. In addition, permits that are sought for the projects may never be issued, and if issued, may not be legal or honored by the entities that issued them.

Changes in our business strategy or restructuring of our businesses may increase our costs or otherwise affect the profitability of our businesses.

As changes in our business environment occur we may need to adjust our business strategies to meet these changes or we may otherwise find it necessary to restructure our operations or particular businesses or assets. When these changes or events occur, we may incur costs to change our business strategy and may need to write down the value of assets. In any of these events our costs may increase, and we may have significant charges associated with the write-down of assets.

We may be unsuccessful in raising the necessary capital to fund operations and capital expenditures.

Our ability to generate cash flow is dependent upon the success of our ability to recover and monetize high-value shipwrecks. However, we cannot guarantee that the sales of our products and other available cash sources will generate sufficient cash flow to meet our overall cash requirements. If cash flow is not sufficient to meet our business requirements, we will be required to raise additional capital through other financing activities. While we have been successful in raising the necessary funds in the past, there can be no assurance we can continue to do so in the future.

We depend on key employees and face competition in hiring and retaining qualified employees.

Our employees are vital to our success, and our key management and other employees are difficult to replace. We currently do not have employment contracts with our key employees. We may not be able to retain highly qualified employees in the future which could adversely affect our business.

We may continue to experience significant losses from operations.

We have experienced a net loss in every fiscal year since our inception except for 2004. Our losses from operations were $18.2 million in 2012, $16.2 million in 2011 and $23.3 million in 2010. Even if we do generate operating income in one or more quarters in the future, subsequent developments in our industry, customer base, business or cost structure or an event such as significant litigation or a significant transaction may cause us to again experience operating losses. We may not become profitable for the long-term, or even for any quarter

Technological obsolescence of our marine assets or failure of critical equipment could put a strain on our capital requirements or operational capabilities.

We employ state-of-the-art technology including side-scan sonar, magnetometer, ROVs, and other advanced science and technology to locate and recover shipwrecks at depths previously unreachable in an economically feasible manner. Although we try to maintain redundancy on critical equipment and components, equipment failures may require us to delay or suspend operations. Also, while we endeavor to keep marine equipment in excellent working condition and current with all available upgrades, technological advances in new equipment may provide superior efficiencies than the capabilities of our existing equipment and this could require us to purchase new equipment which could require additional needs for capital.

We may not be able to contract with clients or customers for marine services or syndicated projects.

During 2012 and 2011 we recorded approximately $5 million and $15 million of revenue, respectively, by chartering vessels, equipment and crew and providing marine services to clients or customers. While the results of these syndicated projects were generally successful, the clients or customers may not be willing or financially able to continue with syndicated projects of this type in the future. Failure to secure such revenue producing contracts in the future would have a material impact on our revenue and operating cash flows.

The issuance of shares at conversion prices lower than the market price at the time of conversion and the sale of such shares could adversely affect the price of our common stock.

Some of our outstanding shares may have been acquired from time to time upon conversion of outstanding senior convertible notes at conversion prices that are lower than the market price of our common stock at the time of conversion. Odyssey has agreed to pay each amortization payment due under the notes in shares of Odyssey’s common stock, if certain conditions are met; provided, that Odyssey may, at its option, elect to pay such amortization payments in cash. The conversion rate applicable to any amortization payment in shares of Odyssey’s common stock will be the lower of (a) the then-current conversion price and (b) a price equal to 85.0% of the average of the volume-weighted average price of Odyssey’s shares of common stock for a ten-day period immediately prior to the applicable amortization date. Conversion of the notes at conversion prices that are lower than the market price at the time of conversion and the sale of the shares issued upon conversion could have an adverse effect upon the market price of our common stock.

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Investments in subsea mineral exploration companies may prove unsuccessful.

We have invested in marine mineral exploration companies that to date are still in the development phase, and have not begun to earn revenue from operations. Depending on the entity, we may or may not have control or input on the future development of these businesses. There can be no assurance that these companies will achieve profitability or otherwise be successful in capitalizing on the mineral resources they intend to exploit.

ITEM 1B. UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS

None.

ITEM 2. PROPERTIES

We maintain our offices in Tampa, Florida where we purchased a 23,500 square-foot two story office building in 2004 to serve as our corporate and operations headquarters. In May 2008, we purchased a one-story 8,100 square-foot commercial building in proximity to our corporate headquarters which is utilized by our conservation, research and archaeology departments. We believe these facilities are sufficient for our foreseeable needs.

ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

See the information set forth under the heading “Admiralty Legal Proceedings” in Part I, Item 1 of this report for disclosure regarding certain admiralty legal proceedings in which Odyssey is involved. Such information is hereby incorporated by reference into this Part I, Item 3.

The Company is not currently a party to any material litigation other than the admiralty proceedings described in this Annual Report on Form 10-K. From time to time in the ordinary course of business, the Company may be subject to or may assert a variety of claims or lawsuits.

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PART II

ITEM 5. MARKET FOR REGISTRANT’S COMMON EQUITY, RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS AND ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES

Performance Graph

This performance graph shall not be deemed ‘‘filed’’ with the SEC or subject to Section 18 of the Exchange Act, nor shall it be deemed incorporated by reference in any of our filings under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.

Assuming an investment of $100 on December 31, 2007, and reinvestment of all dividends, the graph below compares the cumulative total stockholder return on the Company’s Common Stock for the last five fiscal years with the cumulative return of the Standard & Poor’s 500 Market Index and the Russell 2000 Market Index.

COMPARISON OF FIVE-YEAR TOTAL RETURN AMONG ODYSSEY,

S&P 500 STOCK INDEX AND RUSSELL 2000 STOCK INDEX

Price Range of Common Stock

On November 19, 2003, our common stock was listed on the American Stock Exchange and was traded under the symbol OMR. On July 10, 2007, trading of our common stock moved from the American Stock Exchange to the NASDAQ Capital Market under the symbol OMEX. The following table sets forth the high and low sale prices for our common stock during each quarter presented.

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Approximate Number of Holders of Common Stock

The approximate number of record holders of our common stock at February 11, 2013 was 256. This does not include shareholders that hold their stock in accounts included in street name with broker/dealers which approximates 11,500 shareholders.

Dividends

Holders of our common stock are entitled to receive such dividends as may be declared by our Board of Directors. No dividends have been declared with respect to our common stock or preferred stock and none are anticipated in the foreseeable future. Holders of our Series G 8% Convertible Preferred Stock accumulated dividends as described in NOTE Q of the financial statements. These dividends were payable when declared by the Board of Directors. At December 31, 2012, there were no shares of Series G 8% Convertible Preferred Stock outstanding.

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities

There were no unregistered sales of equity securities during the year ended December 31, 2012, that have not been reported in a Current Report on Form 8-K.

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

There were no repurchases of shares of the Company’s common stock during the quarter ended December 31, 2012.

ITEM 6. SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA

The following table sets forth selected financial data, which should be read in conjunction with the Company’s Consolidated Financial Statements and the related notes to those statements included in “Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data” and with “Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” appearing elsewhere in this Form 10-K. The selected financial data have been derived from the Company’s audited financial statements.

ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

The following discussion and analysis is intended to provide a narrative of our financial results and an evaluation of our financial condition and results of operations. The discussion should be read in conjunction with our consolidated financial statements and notes thereto. A description of our business is discussed in Item 1 of this report which contains an overview of our business as well as the status of our ongoing project operations.

Results of Operations

The dollar values discussed in the following tables, except as otherwise indicated, are approximations to the nearest $100,000 and therefore do not necessarily sum in columns or rows. For more detail refer to the Financial Statements and Supplementary Data in Item 8. The tables identify years 2012, 2011 and 2010, all of which included a twelve-month period fiscal year that ended December 31.

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2012 Compared to 2011

Revenue

Revenue is generated through the sale of coins, artifacts and merchandise, the lease of our themed attraction exhibit and expedition charters.

The increase in artifact and other sales of $7.2 million in 2012 was primarily due to an increase in other revenue of $7.6 million associated with revenue from the Gairsoppa project ($7.0 million of which was in the fourth quarter) offset by a reduction in artifact sales of $.4 million. Of the revenue recognized from the Gairsoppa project, $3.7 million was related to silver sales and $3.9 million was credited to revenue from deferred income that represented revenue participation rights earned from the Galt Resources investment.

The decrease in expedition charter revenue in 2012 of $9.7 million was associated with our subsea mineral mining charters primarily related to Neptune Minerals and other miscellaneous charters ($11.7 million), a reduction of Robert Fraser shipwreck projects ($2.0 million) offset in part by work performed in 2012 on Chatham Rock Phosphates ($4.0 million). The expedition charter revenue of $4.9 million in 2012 was primarily associated with a subsea mineral mining charter with Chatham Rock Phosphates off the coast of New Zealand ($4.0 million) and $.7 million of additional work on two Robert Fraser shipwreck projects in the fourth quarter (“Stanton A” and “Enigma”). The expedition charter revenue in 2011 of $14.7 million related primarily to subsea mineral mining charters with Neptune Minerals ($14.2 million) as well as a miscellaneous charter for the Odyssey Explorer ($.5 million). Also, our operational efforts in 2012 were more focused on our shipwreck recovery projects (i.e., Gairsoppa, Mantola and HMS Victory).

Cost and Expenses

Cost of sales consists of shipwreck recovery costs, grading, conservation, packaging, and shipping costs associated with artifact and merchandise sales. Cost of sales decreased by $.2 million in 2012 versus 2011 due to fewer silver coins sold in 2012 versus 2011.

Operations and research expenses primarily include all costs within Archaeology, Conservation, Research, and Marine Operations, which include all vessel and charter operations. Operations and research expenses were $17.9 million in 2012 as compared to $21.3 million in 2011. The decrease in operating and research expenses of $3.3 million primarily represented a recoupment of Gairsoppa total project search and recovery costs of $17.8 million ($.1 million of which was included in Marketing, general and administrative expenses) which have been recovered based upon silver proceeds from the project in 2012. Other favorable variances of $3.8 million include the Ocean Alert which was sold in 2011 and not utilized in 2012 ($1.9 million) and the charter vessel RV Yuzhmorgeologiya which was utilized in 2011 only ($1.9 million). Unfavorable expenses included the Dorado Discovery which incurred an additional $2.6 million of expenses in 2012 versus 2011 primarily related to 27-day transit from Oceania to the West Coast of North America to work on deep-water exploration ($.7 million), additional fuel costs incurred in 2012 which were paid by the charterer in 2011 ($1.1 million) and specialized marine equipment rental ($.8 million). Other offsetting expenses in 2012 included $14.1 million for our chartered vessel which performed survey and recovery operations on both the Gairsoppa and Mantola projects, and $.9 million for the Odyssey Explorer which also performed survey and reconnaissance work on the projects. In addition, we incurred $.6 million in 2012 on miscellaneous charter and other expenses.

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Marketing, general and administrative expenses primarily include all costs within the following departments: Executive, Finance & Accounting, Legal, Information Technology, Human Resources, Marketing & Communications, Sales and Business Development. Marketing, general and administrative expenses were $10.6 million in 2012 as compared to $9.4 million in 2011. The increase of $1.2 million primarily represented an increase in our professional fees and other services ($.9 million) and an increase in employee-related expenses ($.3 million).

Other Income or Expense

Other income and expense generally consists of interest income on investments offset by interest expense on our bank term and other mortgage loans and convertible notes. Beginning in the fourth quarter 2009, it also included the income or loss from our equity investment in subsea mineral mining which has since been written down to zero. It also includes the change in fair value of the derivatives related to our issuance of Series G convertible preferred stock and senior convertible notes. The unfavorable other income variance of $1.7 million in 2012 was related to an unfavorable impact on the fair value of the derivative financial instruments ($1.3 million, see NOTE R), a favorable impact of $4.7 million on the loss on equity investment since the investment had been written down to zero in 2011 and an unfavorable interest expense variance of $5.1 million which primarily related to the interest accretion on the senior convertible note payable ($3.5 million), interest on the convertible note ($1.0 million), derivative-related interest ($.2 million), amortization of financing costs ($.2 million) and other interest ($.2 million). Of the total 2012 interest expense of $6.3 million, only $1.7 million represented cash payments for interest and financing costs.

Income Taxes

We did not record any provision (benefit) for income taxes in 2012 or 2011. Due to the uncertainty surrounding the realization of deferred tax assets resulting from operating loss carryforwards, we recorded a full valuation allowance of $57.9 million against the deferred tax assets as of December 31, 2012, compared to $52.5 million as of December 31, 2011. As required by the Accounting for Income Taxes topic in the Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”), we have evaluated whether it is more likely than not that the deferred tax assets will be realized. Based on the available evidence, we have concluded that it is more likely than not that those assets would not be realizable without the recovery of high-value shipwrecks and thus a valuation allowance has been recorded as of December 31, 2012. We anticipate that we may continue to incur net losses in 2013 pending any shipwreck cargo recoveries that could be quickly monetized (i.e., Gairsoppa or Victory projects). We will continue to reassess the need for a valuation allowance during each future reporting period.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

Discussion of Cash Flows

Net cash flow used in operating activities in 2012 was $6.7 million. This amount primarily reflected an operating loss of $18.2 million offset in part by non-cash items including interest accretion on notes payable ($4.0 million), depreciation and amortization ($1.6 million), share-based compensation ($1.5 million), favorable change in fair value of derivatives liabilities primarily due to redemption of Series G preferred stock ($3.5 million), and financing charge amortization and debt interest settled with common stock on notes payable ($.8 million). Other working capital related changes included an increase in accounts payable and accrued expenses of $13.0 million primarily relating to the Galt Resources payable of $12.5 million at year end, an increase in accounts receivable of $1.6 million of which $1.4 million relates to Gairsoppa silver proceeds received in February 2013, and an decrease in deferred revenue of $4.5 million primarily representing recognition of deferred income from revenue participation rights on the Galt Resources, LLC investment of $3.8 million. The outstanding deferred revenue balance of $2.8 million represents work to be completed on the “Stanton A” and “Enigma” projects. The decrease from $3.5 million represents work completed during the fourth quarter 2012.

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Cash flow used in operating activities in 2011 was $15.2 million. This amount primarily reflected an operating loss of $16.2 million offset in part by non-cash items including depreciation and amortization ($1.9 million), share-based compensation ($1.6 million), change in fair value of derivatives liabilities primarily due to redemption of Series G preferred stock ($5.0 million), write down of vessel Ocean Alert of $.6 million based upon sale in 2011, and interest accretion and financing charge amortization on notes payable ($.7 million). Other working capital changes included a decrease in accounts payable and accrued expenses of $1.7 million, and an increase in deferred revenue of $2.8 million (representing cash receipts of $8.5 million offset by revenue recognized of $5.7 million on the “Firebrand,” “Enigma,” “Shantaram,” “Stanton A” and “Neptune” projects). The outstanding deferred revenue balance of $3.5 million represents work to be completed on the “Stanton A” and “Enigma” projects.

Cash flow used in investing activities for 2012 of $.9 million primarily represented marine property and equipment purchases. Cash flow used in investing activities for 2011 was $.5 million which primarily represented the purchase of marine property and equipment of $1.0 million offset by the proceeds for the sale of the Ocean Alert of $.5 million.

Cash flow provided by financing activities for 2012 was $9.8 million. In addition to the $.9 million received from the issuance of common stock, we received $20.0 million from loans including $8.0 million additional proceeds from the second tranche of the Senior Convertible Note, $2.0 million proceeds from the additional term loan with Fifth Third Bank in March 2012 and $10.0 million from the Gairsoppa project financing from Fifth Third Bank in July 2012. We repaid the $10.0 million Gairsoppa project financing in October 2012 as well as $.7 million of debt obligations including mortgage and loans payable of $.2 million and $.5 million of marine equipment financing. We also incurred $.4 million of brokerage commissions on the second tranche of the Senior Convertible Note.

Cash flow provided by financing activities for 2011 was $23.4 million which primarily represented proceeds from the issuance of common stock ($15.6 million), an increase in deferred income from revenue participation rights on the Galt project of $7.5 million, proceeds from the sale of convertible notes of$10.0 million, offset by payments of $1.0 million for dividends on the Series G convertible preferred stock and broker commissions on capital raises, $5.8 million on redemptions of Series G convertible preferred stock, and $2.9 million repayment of mortgage and notes payable. The deferred income increase represented the proceeds from the Galt project which will be amortized into revenue if, or when, the designated project is recovered and monetized.

General Discussion 2012

At December 31, 2012, we had cash and cash equivalents of $10.1 million, an increase of $2.1 million from the December 31, 2011 balance of $8.0 million.

In April 2012, we delivered an additional closing notice under the securities purchase agreement that was executed in November 2011, when we issued and sold the investor a senior convertible note in the original principal amount of $10.0 million and warrants in amounts as stated above. In connection with the delivery of the additional closing notice, the original agreement was amended to increase the additional second tranche of the note to $8.0 million. The additional note bears interest at 9.0% per year and will mature on the 30-month anniversary of the initial closing date. The additional note will be amortized in equal monthly installments commencing on the eighth-month anniversary of the initial note and may be paid in cash or Odyssey common stock. The additional note may be converted into Odyssey’s common stock, at the option of the holder, at any time following six months after the date of issuance. Odyssey has a right to redeem the additional note. The conversion price of the additional note is $3.74. The number of shares of Odyssey’s common stock issuable upon exercise of the warrant increased to 1,562,500.

During December 2011, we chartered the Dorado Discovery vessel to Chatham Rock Phosphate, Ltd. for $1.2 million in relation to deep-ocean surveying. The charter permitted Chatham to pay for services in either cash or common shares of their company. At December 31, 2011, Chatham anticipated a financing to pay for the charter. We did not record the revenue from this charter because of their liquidity and capital positions at that time. Chatham completed a portion of their financing in the first quarter of 2012 and remitted the $1.2 million payment. In addition, during March 2012, Chatham remitted $1.8 million for charter services performed in the first quarter 2012. An amount due of an additional $1 million was paid in May for services rendered in January 2012. In June, Chatham executed the option to pay the remaining charter balance of $1.7 million in stock and Odyssey received 9.3 million shares, or 12.2% of the company.

Cash proceeds of over $41 million have been received from Gairsoppa silver sales ($1.8 million received in early first quarter 2013). We have paid the United Kingdom (UKG) approximately $4.7 million ($4.3 million paid in 2012) and approximately $15 million to Galt Resources, LLC ($2.5 million paid in 2012). The favorable income statement impact was $25.4 million from the Gairsoppa project in 2012 ($7 million in the fourth quarter 2012).

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In January 2013, we entered into a letter agreement with the Senior Convertible Note investor agreeing to defer until March 1, 2013, the installment payments that would have been otherwise due On January 1, 2013 and February 1, 2013. The investor had previously agreed to defer the December installment payments therefore making the total amount of payments deferred approximately $2.4 million. Also, the Additional Note conversion price was amended from $3.74 to $3.17. The remaining principal balance at December 31, 2012 for the Additional Note was $4.1 million.

During January 2013, investors exercised $2.25 warrants which expired on January 31, 2013 in the amount of over $4.5 million.

Bank Term and Mortgage Loan

On March 30, 2012, we amended our $3.0 million term loan maturing on April 23, 2012. The term loan was increased to $5.0 million with an expiration date of July 11, 2013. The facility bears floating interest at the one-month LIBOR rate according to the Wall Street Journal plus 500 basis points. Any prepayments made in full or in part are without premium or penalty. A commitment renewal fee of $250,000 was payable at closing. No restricted cash payments will need to be kept on deposit. The term loan is still secured by approximately 26,500 numismatic coins recovered by the Company from the SS Republic shipwreck, which amount will be reduced over the term by the amount of coins sold by the Company. The coins used as collateral are held by a custodian for the security of the Bank. The borrowing base is equal to forty percent (40%) of the eligible coin inventory valued on a rolling twelve month wholesale average value. The Company is required to comply with a number of customary covenants. We have had preliminary discussions with Fifth Third Bank and expect the term and mortgage loans, which expire on July 11, 2013 to be renewed.

On July 9, 2012, Odyssey Marine Exploration, Inc. entered into a project term loan agreement with Fifth Third Bank that provided a credit facility of up to $10.0 million. The term loan bears interest at a floating rate equal to the one month LIBOR rate plus 500 basis points. An origination fee of $50,000 was payable at closing. A restricted cash deposit of $500,000 was required to cover interest payments when the term loan is advanced. The term loan was secured by approximately $15.0 million worth of silver recovered from the SS Gairsoppa. The proceeds of the credit facility were used to fund the project recovery costs. The company took a $10 million draw against the facility on July 17, 2012. We paid the project term loan in October 2012 with proceeds from the Gairsoppa project.

Trends and Uncertainties

Our current 2013 business plan estimates positive cash flow from operating activities. The plan contains assumptions which include that several of our planned projects are funded through project recoveries (Gairsoppa) and other financings, syndications or other partnership opportunities. The 2013 business plan expenses include a 90-day charter agreement which we recently executed with a company to provide a ship and equipment to conduct recovery operations on the Gairsoppa and Mantola projects similar to the work performed in 2012 where we monetized over $41 million of silver cash proceeds. One or more of these projected project recoveries, financing or partnership opportunities may not be realized which may require the need for additional cash. Based upon our current expectations, we believe our cash position will be sufficient to fund operating cash flows throughout the rest of 2013 taking into account our beginning cash balance, current cash flow expectations and revenues from multiple sources, including projected sales from recoveries, syndicated projects and other potential financing opportunities. We also anticipate renewing our term and mortgage loans with Fifth Third Bank in July 2013. We have experienced several years of net losses resulting in a stockholders’ deficit. Our capacity to generate net income in future periods is dependent upon our success in recovering and monetizing shipwrecks, realizing capital gains from sale of interest in mineral exploration entities, generating income from shipwreck or mineral exploration charters or to generate income from other projects. However, it is likely that we could monetize a significant portion of the Gairsoppa and Mantola projects in 2013 which could fund our operations for future periods. If cash flow is not sufficient to meet our projected business plan requirements, we will be required to raise additional capital or curtail expenses. While we have been successful in raising the necessary funds in the past, there can be no assurance that we can continue to do so in 2013.

2011 Compared to 2010

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Revenue

Expedition charter revenue was $14.7 million in 2011 versus $20.5 million in 2010. In 2011, $2.9 million related to syndicated projects with the clients of Robert Fraser Partners LLP (RFP) that included two separate projects (Firebrand and Shantaram). In 2010, $9.0 million related to our syndicated projects with clients of RFP that included four separate projects (Enigma I and II, Firebrand and Shantaram). In 2011, revenue included $11.3 million which represented two separate charters with Neptune Minerals Inc. (NMI) for deep ocean mineral mining exploration. In 2010, $7.9 million represented charter services sold to Dorado Ocean Resources for deep ocean mineral mining exploration. RFP and NMI represented 97% of our expedition charter revenue in 2011. Other projects for 2011 included $.5 million for other miscellaneous commercial charters. In 2010, other miscellaneous charters included the ET 409 aircraft recovery and photomosaic project ($2.9 million) and $.7 million from other charter services.

Artifact and other revenues for 2011 and 2010 were $.9 million and $.4 million, respectively. The increase of $.5 million in artifact sales and other in 2011 was primarily due to several factors including the addition of a major new distributor in the first quarter 2011 and new marketing programs leveraging the 150^th Anniversary of the Civil War. Additionally, authorized distributors invested in promoting the SS Republic product as it continued to be a collectible in high demand. Our artifact and other and exhibit revenue for 2011 and 2010 was predominantly U.S. domestic-based.

Exhibit revenue was $.2 million and $.1 million in 2011 and 2010, respectively. Odyssey’s SHIPWRECK! Pirates & Treasure is an interactive multi-media exhibit and features over 500 artifacts recovered from our deep-ocean shipwreck expeditions. The increase of $.1 million in 2011 was because Odyssey’s exhibit, SHIPWRECK! Pirates & Treasure, was on tour for four months in 2010 versus ten months on three separate tours in 2011. The non-booked months in 2010 were related to downtime for planned exhibit refurbishment after runs at five venues and over 600,000 visitors. The exhibit opened at the Witte Museum in San Antonio, Texas in October 2011 and ran through January 2012. In 2010 the exhibit was featured at two locations (Charlotte, North Carolina and Baltimore, Maryland). In 2011 the exhibit was featured at three locations (Baltimore, Maryland; Sarasota, Florida and San Antonio, Texas). The exhibit opened at the Mid America Science Museum in Hot Springs, Arkansas in February 2012 until August 2012 and is currently at the Museum of Science Boston until March 2013.

Cost and Expenses

The primary cost component is from the sale of coins. Cost of sales for coins increased 117% for 2011 versus 2010 primarily because we sold approximately 950 more coins in 2011 than in 2010. Actual cost as a percentage of coin sales was 49% and 49% in 2011 and 2010, respectively. There is no cost of sales component associated with the themed attraction and expedition charter revenues.

Operations and research expenses were $21.3 million in 2011, compared to $19.6 million in 2010. The unfavorable variance of $1.7 million was primarily due to vessel operations. The unfavorable variance of $2.5 million for the Dorado Discovery was the vessel only worked six months in 2010, but worked twelve months in 2011. The Odyssey Explorer was unfavorable $.6 million primarily due to repairs and maintenance. The Ocean Alert was favorable $.9 million (which is net of the $.6 million loss on the disposal of the asset) since it was not working in 2011 and was sold in September. The remaining favorable variance of $.5 million was due to the timing of project ship charters. In 2010, we chartered the Kommandor Stuart for seven months which worked on various shipwreck and commercial projects. In 2011, the Russian search vessel RV Yuzhmorgeologiya was chartered for approximately 70 days for work on the Gairsoppa and Mantola projects.

Marketing, general and administrative expenses were $9.4 million in 2011 versus $9.2 million in 2010. The increase was primarily attributable to bank fees associated with renewal of our term loan in May 2011.

Other Income or Expense

Beginning in the fourth quarter 2009, it also included the income or loss from our equity investment. Beginning in the fourth quarter 2010 it included the change in fair value of the derivatives related to our issuance of Series G preferred stock and the gain/(loss) on debt extinguishment. Beginning in the fourth quarter 2011 it also included the change in fair value of the derivatives related to the senior convertible notes and warrants issued in November 2011. Total other expense

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was $.9 million in 2011 and $6.9 million in 2010. The favorable difference of $6.1 million primarily represented the change in fair value of the financial derivative instruments of $8.6 million (see NOTE K of our Consolidated Financial Statements) offset by interest expense in connection with our senior convertible notes sold in November 2011 ($.2 million) and an increase in expense representing the loss on our equity investment ($2.3 million) in Neptune Minerals Inc. (See NOTE J of our Consolidated Financial Statements).

Income Taxes

We did not record any provision (benefit) for income taxes in 2011 or 2010. Due to the uncertainty surrounding the realization of deferred tax assets resulting from operating loss carryforwards, we recorded a full valuation allowance of $52.5 million against the deferred tax assets as of December 31, 2011 compared to $46.0 million as of December 31, 2010. As required by the Accounting for Income Taxes topic in the Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”), we have evaluated whether it is more likely than not that the deferred tax assets will be realized. Based on the available evidence, we have concluded that it is more likely than not that those assets would not be realizable without the recovery of high-value shipwrecks and thus a valuation allowance has been recorded as of December 31, 2011. We will continue to reassess the need for a valuation allowance during each future reporting period.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

Discussion of Cash Flows

Cash flow used in operating activities in 2011 was $15.2 million. This amount primarily reflected an operating loss of $16.2 million offset in part by non-cash items including depreciation and amortization ($1.9 million), share-based compensation ($1.6 million), change in fair value of derivatives liabilities primarily due to redemption of Series G preferred stock ($5.0 million), write down of vessel Ocean Alert of $.6 million based upon sale in 2011, and interest accretion and financing charge amortization on notes payable ($.7 million). Other working capital changes included a decrease in accounts payable and accrued expenses of $1.7 million, and an increase in deferred revenue of $2.8 million (representing cash receipts of $8.5 million offset by revenue recognized of $5.7 million on the “Firebrand,” “Enigma,” “Shantaram,” “Stanton A” and “Neptune” projects). The outstanding deferred revenue balance of $3.5 million represents work to be completed on the “Stanton A” and “Enigma” projects.

Cash flow used in operating activities in 2010 was $12.2 million. This amount primarily reflected an operating loss of $23.3 million offset in part by non-cash items including depreciation and amortization ($2.2 million), share-based compensation ($2.1 million), loss from unconsolidated entity ($2.4 million), change in fair value of derivatives liabilities due to the issuance of Series G preferred stock ($3.6 million), and loss on extinguishment of debt and loan discount amortization related to the exchange of notes payable for Series G preferred stock ($.5 million). The overall net increase in accounts receivable, net of reserves of $8.5 million, is $1.8 million which primarily represents charter services for Dorado Ocean Resources. Other working capital changes included an increase in accounts payable and accrued expenses of $2.8 million ($2.1 million represents ship charter-related expenses), and a decrease in deferred revenue of $.5 million (representing cash receipts of $3.7 million offset by revenue recognized of $4.2 million on the “Firebrand,” “Enigma” and “Shantaram” projects).

Net cash flow used in investing activities for 2011 was $.5 million which primarily represented the purchase of marine property and equipment of $1.0 million offset by the proceeds for the sale of the Ocean Alert of $.5 million. Cash flows used in investing activities for 2010 of $1.6 million primarily represented marine property and equipment purchases for our business venture into subsea mineral mining and exploration.

Net cash flow provided by financing activities for 2011 was $23.4 million which primarily represented proceeds from the issuance of common stock ($15.6 million), an increase in deferred income from revenue participation rights on the Galt project ($7.5 million, see NOTE P), proceeds from the sale of convertible notes ($10.0 million), offset by payments of

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$1.0 million for dividends on the Series G convertible preferred stock and broker commissions on capital raises, $5.8 million on redemptions of Series G convertible preferred stock, and $2.9 million repayment of mortgage and notes payable. The deferred income increase represented the proceeds from the Galt project.

Net cash flow provided by financing activities in 2010 was $11.9 million which included $6.2 million proceeds from the issuance and sale of common stock in January 2010 offset by fees related to the private offering of $.2 million, $1.9 million proceeds from the issuance of promissory notes in August 2010 (of which $1.0 million was exchanged for Series G preferred stock in October 2010), $5.1 million in proceeds from the sale of Series G preferred stock in October 2010, and repayment of $1.1 million of mortgage and loans payable ($.9 million of which related to the repayment of the promissory notes in October 2010).

General Discussion 2011

At December 31, 2011, we had cash and cash equivalents of $8.0 million, an increase of $7.7 million from the December 31, 2010 balance of $.2 million.

In January 2011, we executed agreements to provide marine archaeological excavation and related services on an existing project to certain client companies of Robert Fraser & Partners LLP (RFP). The work was conducted on a shipwreck site that we discovered and inspected during a recently completed survey carried out under contract with the RFP client companies. The contract provides for cash payments totaling approximately $2.3 million to Odyssey (of which $2.1 million was received in the first quarter) plus additional payments based upon revenue derived from the project. We plan to begin work on this project later in 2012.

In February 2011, Odyssey closed on a project syndication deal with Galt Resources LLC. Odyssey has received approximately $7.5 million from Galt which represent rights to future revenues of the project Galt selects prior to December 31, 2011. If the project is successful, Galt will recoup their investment plus three times the investment. These amounts will be paid out of proceeds of the project. Galt will receive 50% of the proceeds until this amount is recouped. In addition they will share in the future net proceeds of the project at the rate of 1% for every million invested. In January 2012, Odyssey and Galt agreed to bifurcate Galt’s selection between two projects, the SS Gairsoppa and HMS Victory, subject to final executed agreements for the project. Galt will receive 50% of Odyssey’s net proceeds, if any, on the SS Gairsoppa project until Galt receives two (2) times its initial investment of $7,512,500. Galt will also receive 50% of Odyssey’s net proceeds, if any, on the HMS Victory project until Galt receives two (2) times its initial investment and thereafter will receive 7.5125% of Odyssey’s net proceeds from the HMS Victory project. Galt has currently received the approximate $15 million earned on the project.

During February 2011, Odyssey entered into a charter agreement with Neptune Minerals PLC (a UK Company) and Neptune Minerals, Inc. (a Nevada Corp.) and Neptune Resources Ltd. (a New Zealand Company) for the Dorado Discovery to supply geological exploration services to Neptune Minerals to explore their tenements in the waters surrounding New Zealand in the first half of 2011. Odyssey received $3 million in cash for the charter services and also received a minority equity position in Neptune Minerals, Inc.

In March 2011, we executed an agreement with client companies of RFP to provide mining exploration and certain drilling operations in a tenement area controlled by Dorado Ocean Resources (now owned by Neptune Minerals, Inc.). The drilling operations would be conducted on a Seafloor Massive Sulfide (SMS) deposit that was surveyed by us during the first 100 days of exploration in Dorado’s South Pacific concession areas in 2010. We initially received $1.4 million with another $.1 million due at the start of the project plus additional payments based upon revenue derived from the project, if any. Final payment of $.2 million was received in March 2011 for the Firebrand project which was completed in the second quarter 2011.

In March 2011, we executed agreements to expand a search and provide marine archaeological excavation and related services to certain client companies of RFP. Additional work was conducted on and around a site that we discovered and inspected during a recently completed survey carried out under contract with the RFP client companies. The contract provides for cash payments totaling approximately $2.0 million to Odyssey (of which $1.0 million was received in the first quarter and an additional $.8 million was received in April 2011), plus additional payments based upon revenue derived from the project. The work has been completed and the target shipwreck was not located.

In April 2011, we entered into separate agreements with two holders of our Series G 8% Convertible Preferred Stock. The two holders represented $5,250,000 of the original $6,000,000 Series G Convertible Preferred Stock issued on October 12, 2010. The Certificate of Designation relating to the Series G Convertible Preferred Stock includes (a) an option for the holders thereof to convert their shares of Series G Preferred Stock into shares of common stock that became exercisable on April 15, 2011, and (b) an option for the holders to redeem the shares of Series G Convertible Preferred Stock at any time after December 15, 2011, with the redemption price increasing by 1% per every month beginning April 1, 2011.

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In consideration of the issuance by Odyssey of warrants to purchase an additional 525,000 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $2.75 per share, the holders agreed to extend by six months the dates upon which the conversion option and the redemption option become exercisable and date upon which the redemption price begins to increase by 1% per month. The shares of Series G Convertible Preferred Stock held by the remaining holders, representing $750,000 of the offering, were redeemed in April 2011 in accordance with the Certificate of Designation (See NOTE Q to our Consolidated Financial Statements). Also, in October 2011, Odyssey redeemed the largest holder of the Series G Preferred Stock for $5.0 million plus accrued dividends. Currently, all Series G Preferred Stock has been redeemed or converted.

In June 2011, Neptune completed a share exchange with the stockholders of Dorado whereby each one outstanding share of DOR was exchanged for 1,000 shares of NMI Class B non-voting common stock. Prior to the share exchange, Odyssey was a stockholder of DOR, and we received 1.65 million shares of NMI Class B non-voting common stock pursuant to the share exchange. In connection with the share exchange, NMI executed an assignment and assumption agreement, whereby NMI assumed $8.2 million of the outstanding debt of DOR owed to us. In addition, we executed a debt conversion agreement with NMI, whereby we converted $2.5 million of the debt for 2.5 million shares of NMI Class B non-voting common stock (See NOTE J to our Consolidated Financial Statements).

In June 2011, our stockholders approved an amendment to our articles of incorporation to increase the number of shares of common stock, par value $0.0001 per share, from 100,000,000 to 150,000,000. We filed the amendment on June 6, 2011.

In June 2011, we entered into a charter agreement with Neptune, Bluewater Metals (South Pacific) Ltd., and Bluewater Metals (Solomon Islands) Ltd. for the Dorado Discovery to supply geological exploration services to Neptune Minerals to explore tenements in the waters of the South Pacific previously held by Dorado. We received $6.9 million for our services in a combination of cash and additional equity in Neptune. As of December 31, 2011, we had approximately a 32 % equity ownership in Neptune (See NOTE J to our Consolidated Financial Statements).

On June 21, 2011 Odyssey completed a public offering of 5,520,000 shares of common stock at a price to the public of $3.05 whereby Odyssey received $15.6 million in net proceeds. We used the net proceeds from the offering for shipwreck exploration and recovery projects, other working capital and for general corporate purposes.

On June 27, 2011, we announced we were added to the Russell 3000^® and Russell Global^® Indexes as of close of trading on Friday, June 24, 2011, and will remain in place for the ensuing 12-month period. All Russell indexes are subindexes of the Global Index. The addition to the Russell 3000^® and Russell Global^® Indexes will expand awareness of our company among institutional investors as we continue to execute our growth strategy.

On November 8, 2011, we entered into a securities purchase agreement with one institutional investor pursuant to which Odyssey issued and sold a senior convertible note in the original principal amount of $10.0 million and a warrant to purchase up to 1,302,083 shares of Odyssey’s common stock for an aggregate purchase price of $10.0 million. Subject to the satisfaction of conditions set forth in the Purchase Agreement, Odyssey has the right to require the investor to purchase an additional senior convertible note in the original principal amount of up to $5.0 million on the six-month anniversary of the initial closing date. The indebtedness evidenced by the Notes bears interest at 8.0% percent per year, payable quarterly, and matures on the 30-month anniversary of the initial closing date. (See NOTE L to the Consolidated Financial Statements).

During December 2011, we chartered the Dorado Discovery vessel to Chatham Rock Phosphate, Ltd. for $1.2 million in relation to deep-ocean surveying. The charter permits Chatham to pay for services in either cash or common shares of their company. At December 31, 2011, Chatham was planning on a financing to pay for the charter. We did not record the revenue from this charter because of their liquidity and capital positions at that time. Chatham completed a portion of their financing in the first quarter of 2012 and remitted the $1.2 million payment.

Bank Term Loan

On May 4, 2011, we amended our revolving credit facility to replace it with a $5 million term loan maturing on April 23, 2012. A principal payment of $2 million was due and paid by August 1, 2011 with the remainder due upon maturity. The facility bears a floating interest rate at the one month LIBOR rate according to the Wall Street Journal plus 500 basis points. Any prepayments made in full or in part are without premium or penalty. A commitment fee of $250,000 was payable at closing. No restricted cash payments will need to be kept on deposit. As a condition to the loan renewal, we were required to amend the mortgage loan whereby we are required to pay additional principal to meet an 80% loan-to-value (LTV) based upon an independent real estate appraisal. The additional principal payments will be at $100,000 per month until the loan balance meets the 80% LTV. Based on this condition, we commenced the repayment of $.6 million starting in July 2011. The amended term loan is secured by approximately 27,000 numismatic coins recovered from the SS Republic shipwreck, which amount will be reduced over the term by the amount of coins sold by the Company. The coins used as

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collateral are held by a custodian for the security of the Bank. The borrowing base is equal to forty percent (40%) of the eligible coin inventory valued on a rolling twelve-month wholesale average value ($16.3 million as of December 31, 2011). The Company is required to comply with a number of customary covenants. On March 30, 2012, the bank the term loan was increased to $5 million (an additional $2 million) with similar terms and conditions as the former term loan.

Off Balance Sheet Arrangements

We do not engage in off-balance sheet financing arrangements. In particular, we do not have any interest in so-called limited purpose entities, which include special purpose entities (SPEs) and structured finance entities.

Indemnification Provisions

Under our bylaws and certain consulting agreements, we have agreed to indemnify our officers and directors for certain events arising as a result of the officer’s or director’s serving in such capacity. Separate agreements may provide indemnification after term of service. The term of the indemnification agreement is as long as the officer or director remains in the employment of the company. The maximum potential amount of future payments we could be required to make under these indemnification agreements is unlimited. However, our director and officer liability insurance policy limits its exposure and enables us to recover a portion of any future amounts paid. As a result of our insurance policy coverage, we believe the estimated fair value of these indemnification agreements is minimal and no liabilities are recorded for these agreements as of December 31, 2012.

Critical Accounting Estimates

The discussion and analysis of our financial position and results of operations is based upon our financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the U.S. The preparation of these financial statements requires us to make estimates and judgments that affect our financial position and results of operations. See NOTE A to the Consolidated Financial Statements for a description of our significant accounting policies. Critical accounting estimates are defined as those that are reflective of significant judgment and uncertainties, and potentially result in materially different results under different assumptions and conditions. We have identified the following critical accounting estimates. We have discussed the development, selection and disclosure of these policies with our audit committee.

Long-Lived Assets

As of December 31, 2012, we had approximately $6.5 million of property and equipment and related assets. Our policy is to recognize impairment losses relating to long-lived assets in accordance with the ASC topic for Property, Plant and Equipment. Impairment decisions are based on several factors, including, but not limited to, management’s plans for future operations, recent operating results and projected cash flows.

Realizability of Deferred Tax Assets

We have recorded a net deferred tax asset of $0 at December 31, 2012. As required by the Accounting for Income Taxes topic in the ASC, we have evaluated whether it is more likely than not that the deferred tax assets will be realized. Based on the available evidence, we have concluded that it is more likely than not that those assets would not be realizable without the recovery and rights of ownership or salvage rights of high value shipwrecks and thus a valuation allowance of $57.9 million has been recorded as of December 31, 2012.

Artifact Inventory

The value of recovered artifacts in inventory includes the costs of recovery and conservation. The capitalized costs include direct costs of recovery such as vessel and related equipment operations and maintenance, crew and technical labor, fuel, provisions, supplies, port fees, depreciation and may even include fees paid to an insurer to relinquish the insurer’s claim to the recovered artifacts. Conservation costs include fees paid to conservators for cleaning and preserving the artifacts. We continually monitor the recorded aggregate costs of the artifacts in inventory to ensure these costs do not exceed the net realizable value. We use historical sales, publications or available public market data to assess market value.

Allowance for Doubtful Accounts

In determining the collectability of our accounts receivable, we need to make certain assumptions and estimates. Specifically, we may examine accounts and assess the likelihood of collection of particular accounts.

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Derivative Financial Instruments

In evaluating fair value of derivative financial instruments, there are numerous assumptions which management must make that may influence the valuation of the derivatives as included in the financial statements.

Contractual Obligations

At December 31, 2012, the Company’s contractual obligations including estimated payments due by period are as follows:

Long-term obligations represent the amount due on our existing mortgages and convertible note. The operating lease represents our vessel charter. The vessel charter has a lease period March 2010 to February 2014 as well as a ninety-day termination notice clause. In January 2013, we entered into a 90 day firm time party charter agreement with a Norwegian company for a vessel to assist in the excavation of the Gairsoppa and Mantola sites. The charter is to commence around the May—June 2013 time frame, but the exact time will be mutually agreed to at a later time. The charter commitment is approximately 66 million NOK (Norwegian Kroner) which currently approximates $12.1 million. A payment of USD 1,500,000 is to be remitted 14 days prior to the start of the charter.

ITEM 7A. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

Market risk is the exposure to loss resulting from changes in interest rates, foreign currency exchange rates, commodity prices and equity prices. We do not believe we have material market risk exposure and have not entered into any market risk sensitive instruments to mitigate these risks or for trading or speculative purposes.

Our term loan bears a variable interest rate based on LIBOR and our primary mortgage bears interest at a variable rate based on the prime rate. See NOTE L for further detail on these instruments. Both of these instruments expose us to interest rate risk. On our primary mortgage, for an increase of every 100 basis points, our interest obligation increases, at most, by approximately $1,100 per month until maturity in July 2013. On our term loan, an increase of every 100 basis points to the interest rate increases our interest obligation, at most, by approximately $4,000 per month until maturity in April 2012. If an increase to the rates on these instruments occurs, it will have an adverse effect on our operating cash flows and financial condition but we believe it would not be material.

ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA

The information required by this item appears beginning on page 28.

ITEM 9. CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE

None.

ITEM 9A. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

Disclosure Controls and Procedures

We maintain a set of disclosure controls and procedures designed to ensure that information we are required to disclose in reports that we file with or furnish to the SEC is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified by the SEC. An evaluation was carried out under the supervision and with the participation of the Company’s management, including the Chief Executive Officer (“CEO”) and Chief Financial Officer (“CFO”), of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures as of the end of the period covered by this report. Based on that evaluation, the CEO and CFO have concluded that the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures are effective to ensure that we are able to collect process and disclose the information we are required to disclose in the reports we file with the SEC within required time periods.

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Internal Controls over Financial Reporting

Management’s report on our internal controls over financial reporting can be found in the financial statement section of this report. The Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm’s attestation report on management’s assessment of the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting can also be found in the financial statement section of this report.

There have been no significant changes in the Company’s internal controls over financial reporting during the quarter ended December 31, 2012 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.

ITEM 9B. OTHER INFORMATION

None.

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PART III

ITEM 10. DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE

Information concerning Directors and Executive Officers is hereby incorporated by reference to the information under the headings “Election of Directors” and “Executive Officers and Directors of the Company” in the Company’s Proxy Statement (the “Proxy Statement”) for the Annual Meeting of Stockholder to be held on June 5, 2013.

The Company has adopted a Code of Ethics that applies to all of its employees, including the principal executive officer, the principal financial officer and the principal accounting officer. The Code of Ethics and all committee charters are posted on the Company’s website (www.shipwreck.net). We will provide a copy of any of these documents to stockholders free of charge upon request to the Company.

ITEM 11. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

The information required by this Item is hereby incorporated by reference to the information under the heading “Executive Compensation” in the Proxy Statement.

ITEM 12. SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS

A portion of the information required by this Item pursuant to Item 403 of Regulation S-K is hereby incorporated by reference to the information under the heading “ Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management” in the Proxy Statement. The information required pursuant to Item 201(d) of Regulation S-K is hereby incorporated by reference to the information under the heading “Equity Compensation Plan Information” in the Proxy Statement.

ITEM 13. CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS, AND DIRECTOR INDEPENDENCE

The information required by this Item is hereby incorporated by reference to the information under the heading “Certain Relationships and Related Transactions” in the Proxy Statement.

ITEM 14. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING FEES AND SERVICES

The information required by this Item is hereby incorporated by reference to the information under the heading “Independent Auditor Fees” in the Proxy Statement.

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PART IV

ITEM 15. EXHIBITS AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES

The following documents are filed as part of this Annual Report on Form 10-K:

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INDEX TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

ODYSSEY MARINE EXPLORATION, INC.

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MANAGEMENT’S ANNUAL REPORT ON INTERNAL CONTROL OVER FINANCIAL REPORTING

The Company’s management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting for the Company. With the participation of the Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer, management conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting based on the framework and the criteria established in Internal Control – Integrated Framework, issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission. Based on this evaluation, management has concluded that internal control over financial reporting was effective as of December 31, 2012.

The Company’s independent auditor, Ferlita, Walsh, Gonzalez & Rodriguez, P.A., a registered public accounting firm, has issued an attestation report on management’s assessment of internal control over financial reporting, which is included herein.

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REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

The Board of Directors

Odyssey Marine Exploration, Inc. and Subsidiaries

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Odyssey Marine Exploration, Inc. and subsidiaries as of December 31, 2012 and 2011, and the related consolidated statements of income, changes in stockholders’ equity (deficit) and cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010. Odyssey Marine Exploration, Inc. and subsidiaries’ management is responsible for these consolidated financial statements. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these consolidated financial statements based on our audits.

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the consolidated financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the consolidated financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Odyssey Marine Exploration, Inc. and subsidiaries as of December 31, 2012 and 2011, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), Odyssey Marine Exploration, Inc. and subsidiaries’ internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2012, based on criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO), and our report dated March 4, 2013 expressed an unqualified opinion.

March 4, 2013

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REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM ON

INTERNAL CONTROL OVER FINANCIAL REPORTING

The Board of Directors

Odyssey Marine Exploration, Inc. and Subsidiaries

We have audited Odyssey Marine Exploration, Inc. and subsidiaries’ internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2012, based on criteria established in Internal Control-Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). Odyssey Marine Exploration, Inc. and subsidiaries’ management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting included in the accompanying Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on Odyssey Marine Exploration, Inc. and subsidiaries’ internal control over financial reporting based on our audit.

We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audit of internal control over financial reporting included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, and testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk. Our audit also included performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.

A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

In our opinion, Odyssey Marine Exploration, Inc and subsidiaries maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2012, based on criteria established in Internal Control-Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO).

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the consolidated balance sheets and the related consolidated statements of income, changes in stockholders’ equity (deficit) and cash flows of Odyssey Marine Exploration, Inc. and subsidiaries, and our report dated March 4, 2013 expressed an unqualified opinion.

March 4, 2013

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ODYSSEY MARINE EXPLORATION, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

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ODYSSEY MARINE EXPLORATION, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

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ODYSSEY MARINE EXPLORATION, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY / (DEFICIT)