wreck

Log This Dive

BARRYMAN

Barryman is a strange one. We’re talking about a wreck that sank in 1973, which sounds deep, doesn’t it? But she’s absolutely right there, stranded at Kimmeridge, barely a metre deep even at high tide. You’re not so much diving this as wading and snorkelling, really. It’s perfect if you’ve got kids who want to try snorkelling over something more interesting than just rocks, or if you’re into underwater photography and fancy a different kind of challenge. We love Barryman for its sheer accessibility and the way it shifts with the light. On a sunny day, the hull plates shimmer, covered in green algae and barnacles. You’ll spot blennies darting into crevices, and sometimes a curious crab scuttling across the exposed timbers. It’s a shallow-water photographer’s dream, letting you play with reflections and the movement of the surface. Our favourite time to visit is on a calm, bright morning when the tide is just starting to come in, before too many people arrive. Just remember, it’s still the English Channel, so bring a decent wetsuit – even a metre of water can feel chilly!