Dive Trails
The HWTMA has been involved with a pioneering initiative to increase awareness of and access to our submerged maritime heritage. Since 2000 we have been involved with the creation of Dive Trails that encourage responsible divers to visit shipwreck sites which may otherwise be restricted or difficult to interpret. We also aim to educate divers about the important features of the sites, the story of the ship and it’s loss, the marine life which has colonised the wreck and what archaeologists can learn from the remains.
The Alum Bay Dive Trail was launched to the press and public on 20th May 2005, with special guest archaeologist and television celebrity Phil Harding. After presentations on the background of the trail the invited divers set out from Yarmouth for the first official dive around the trail. Non-divers enjoyed a tour of The Sunken History Exhibition before following the divers to Alum Bay on a pleasure boat.
Phil Harding, Garry Momber and Maldwin Drummond launch
the dive trail
The Trust has also setup the Needles Dive Trail around the Protected site which includes HMS Pomone and HMS Assurance.
The HWTMA has also aided the setting up of the Hazardous Dive Trail and continues to support it. The trail takes visitors around the site of the Protected Wreck in Bracklesham Bay, West Sussex.
If you would like to know more please contact diving@hwtma.org.uk