HMS HIND

Best months: Jul–Sep

Protected Area

Jersey Coast

Why dive here

With 176+ marine species recorded in the area - including blue sharks, dolphins, dwarf minke whales, humpback whales and ocean sunfish (mola mola) - HMS HIND offers some of Cornwall & Devon's richest wreck diving. Water ranges 10-18°C, warmest July, August, September.

Best timeJul–Sep

WetsuitA 5mm wetsuit

Marine lifeBlue Sharks, Dolphins, Dwarf Minke Whales, Humpback Whales and Ocean Sunfish (Mola Mola) · 176+ species recorded

Water10-18°C · warmest July, August, September

CharacterWreck dive · max 1m

StandoutExceptional marine biodiversity

HMS Hind isn't a deep dive, not by a long shot. In fact, it’s barely a dive at all, more of a snorkel or a paddle at low tide, sitting in just one metre of water on Hinguette Reef. But don’t let that put you off. What you lose in depth, you gain in historical resonance and accessibility. We love coming here with a mask and fins on a calm day, just after slack low water, when the sea is clear and the sun filters through the surface. You’re essentially exploring the skeletal remains of an 18th-century sailing vessel, wrecked due to a pilotage error back in 1721. The timbers are still there, surprisingly intact in places, a dark silhouette against the sandy bottom. You can trace the outline of the hull, feeling the rough texture of the ancient wood. Our favourite part is spotting the crabs scuttling amongst the frames, and the small shoals of pollack that dart in and out of the shadows cast by the timbers. It’s a powerful, tangible link to maritime history, a quiet, reflective spot that suits anyone who appreciates a wreck with a story, even if you’re only getting your knees wet.