The Hampshire and Wight Trust for Maritime Archaeology

• About Alum Bay
• Alum Bay I Wreck
• Alum Bay II Wreck
• Searching the Bay
• Alum Bay Diver Trail

About Alum Bay

Alum Bay lies to the East of the treacherous Needles Rocks. The bay forms the first area sheltered from south westerly winds once past the Needles and into the western Solent. Many vessels have fallen 'prey' to the Needles and the submerged chalk ridges, sections of these vessels and their artefacts have floated away from the wrecking site to sink in the nearest area of quiet water. This wrecking process has contributed to the submerged heritage to be found in Alum Bay.

Divers preparing to dive in Alum Bay

Over the past twelve years the HWTMA has carried out searches, surveys and excavation in the bay. These projects have included work on relatively intact wreck sites and sections of wrecks as well as scatters of artefacts.

As with many HWTMA projects, a wide range of people have been involved with this fieldwork, both above and below the water. This has included local divers and dive clubs, students and volunteers, many of whom have taken part in the NAS training scheme.