Protected wreck open for diving

Access to a protected wreck site off the south coast is being offered this summer.

The Nautical Archaeology Society (NAS) is opening up the Norman’s Bay wreck site once again to divers.The NAS buoyed the site and created a ‘wreck trail’ back in 2011.

The Norman’s Bay wreck is believed to be either HMS Resolution which sank in 1703, or a Dutch warship lost in the Battle of Beachy Head in 1690.

This was a famous victory for the French navy, which defeated English and Dutch warships, sending at least seven of the latter to the bottom, and three in Norman’s Bay alone.

Reportedly on the site are a cluster of at least forty-two iron guns, a timber hull structure and various other artefacts including a large anchor. Divers will also see a scattering of various cannons, including 12- and 24-pounders, all visible lying in only 15 metres of water.

On the same dates, the NAS is offering access to the Holland 5 submarine, which lies in 35 metres. Divers must be DL/Rescue Diver level and carry redundant gas.

If you fancy taking a look at the Norman’s Bay wreck trail or the Holland 5, drop Mark at the NAS a line on mark@nauticalarchaeologysociety.org to check availability.