HMS HIND - Cornwall & Devon

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.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
49.152332, -2.128556
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
1m

Marine Protected Area: Jersey Coast

Best Time to Dive in Cornwall & Devon

The warmest water temperatures in Cornwall & Devon occur in January, averaging 9.6°C. The coolest conditions are in December at 9.6°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 9.6°C (air: 7.3°C)
  • February: 9.6°C (air: 8.4°C)
  • March: 9.6°C (air: 8.6°C)
  • April: 9.6°C (air: 10.1°C)
  • May: 9.6°C (air: 12.6°C)
  • June: 9.6°C (air: 15.2°C)
  • July: 9.6°C (air: 16.6°C)
  • August: 9.6°C (air: 17.1°C)
  • September: 9.6°C (air: 15.9°C)
  • October: 9.6°C (air: 13.5°C)
  • November: 9.6°C (air: 10.7°C)
  • December: 9.6°C (air: 8.7°C)

Nearby Dive Sites in Cornwall & Devon

Nearest Dive Centres to HMS HIND

Marine Life in Cornwall & Devon

Home to 192 recorded species including 93 reef fish, 18 sharks & rays, 13 whales & dolphins, 11 crabs & lobsters, 11 other, 10 seagrass & algae.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for HMS HIND

Based on average water temperature of 9.6°C.

  • Drysuit - water at 10°C demands a drysuit with thermal undergarments
  • Hood & Gloves (7mm+) - critical to prevent heat loss
  • Mask - essential for every dive
  • Fins
  • BCD - buoyancy compensator
  • Regulator - your most safety-critical piece of gear
  • Dive Computer - tracks depth, time, and NDL
  • Surface Marker Buoy (SMB) - essential for boat pickups
  • Dive Torch - useful for crevices and colour at depth
  • Underwater Camera - capture your diving memories

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average depth of the HMS Hind wreck for recreational divers?
The HMS Hind wreck is found at a very shallow average depth of 1 meter, making it accessible for many recreational divers. This shallow depth means divers can enjoy extended bottom times exploring this historic site.
What remains of the HMS Hind wreck are visible, and what marine life inhabits the site?
The HMS Hind was a sailing vessel measuring 28.7m x 7.9m, which sank in 1721. While the data specifies its dimensions and type, it does not provide details on specific visible remains or marine life inhabiting the site. For general information on marine life, you can visit our wildlife database.
How challenging is the HMS Hind wreck dive, considering potential currents and exposure in the Orkney Islands?
The HMS Hind wreck dive is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive. It's important to note that the wreck is located off Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, not the Orkney Islands. The provided data does not specify details about currents or exposure at this particular site.
What are the optimal seasons or months to dive the HMS Hind for the best visibility and calmest conditions?
The provided data does not specify the optimal seasons or months for diving the HMS Hind for best visibility and calmest conditions. For general guidance on when to dive in the region, you might find our When to Dive section helpful.
Are there any specific diving certifications or experience levels recommended for diving the HMS Hind wreck?
Given that the HMS Hind is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive, divers should possess appropriate certification and experience for such conditions. While specific certifications aren't listed, an Advanced Open Water Diver certification or equivalent is generally recommended for intermediate wreck dives.
What are the typical water temperatures, currents, and visibility divers can expect at the HMS Hind dive site?
The provided data for the HMS Hind dive site does not include information on typical water temperatures, currents, or visibility. Divers planning a trip should consult local dive operators for the most current conditions.