wreck

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HMS DETERMINEE (EX LA DETERMINEE)

The HMS Determinee, once the French La Determinee, offers a genuinely unique piece of history just below the surface. We love this site for its accessibility and the sheer weight of its story. It’s a shallow dive, barely 5 metres, making it perfect for newer divers or those who just want a relaxed potter, but don't let the depth fool you into thinking it's boring. What remains of the 24-gun frigate, wrecked in 1803, is spread across a rocky seabed off Noirmont Point. You’ll find timbers, cannon, and scattered artefacts, often half-buried in the sand. We’ve spent hours here, meticulously sifting through the shingle, imagining the chaos of its final moments. The wreck is a haven for the usual Cornish suspects – wrasse darting between the frames, spider crabs scuttling over corroded metal, and sometimes a curious dogfish peeking from under a deeper crevice. It’s not a vibrant coral garden, but the green and brown hues of the kelp swaying over history have their own stark beauty. Our favourite time to visit is on a calm, sunny day when the light penetrates right to the bottom, illuminating the ghostly remains. Just remember to check the tides; strong currents can make the dive less enjoyable, and we prefer a slack water entry for the best experience.