wreck

Log This Dive

HELENA MENZEL

The Helena Menzel is a standout for a reason, and not just because it's a genuine piece of history on the seabed. We love this wreck, resting upright in 20 metres, because it feels like a proper dive into a forgotten time. You descend onto the deck, and you can still make out the outline of the bridge, the cargo holds, even a mast lying across the seabed. It’s got that eerie, silent quality you only find in wrecks that haven't been picked apart. The real magic here is how the wreck has become a habitat. It’s a riot of colour against the steel – anemones clinging to every surface, nudibranchs crawling along the railings. We've seen some surprisingly large cod tucked into the cargo holds, just watching you glide past. Penetration isn't really an option given its age and integrity, but you can swim right through the main deck structure, feeling the cool water swirl around you as you pass through open doorways. This site really suits divers who appreciate history and don't mind a bit of a chill; the visibility can be excellent, though we'd suggest hitting it on a calm day for the best experience. It's a proper wreck dive, no frills, just history and marine life making a home.