portland harbour wrecks

21 souls were lost on her. [31] In July 1940, the anti-aircraft ship HMS Foylebank was attacked by Stuka dive-bombers and sank in the harbour. This is on the outside of the breakwater and just around the corner from the Fort. Despite its shallow depth, because it can be dived in almost any weather conditions and the lure of the wreck itself, the Dredger is even regularly visited by technical divers who use it as a platform for training. In 1946, however, it returned (having been renamed HM Anti-Submarine Experimental Establishment); over the next few years its headquarters on Balaclava Bay were rebuilt and extended, and it was again renamed as HM Underwater Detection Establishment (HMUDE). The Verne Citadel, designed by Captain Crosman R.E., was built at Verne Hill between 1860-81: the 56 acre fortress was designed for 1000 troops and had gun emplacements facing seawards on three sides. As planned, Portland's Royal Dockyard closed in 1959, but the Naval Base remained open 'in support of the local establishments and H.M. ships using the harbour'. In recent years the number of cruise ship calls have increased at the port. Having defied an 11-month salvage attempt after its sinking, this undamaged and unique wreck has become a popular dive site in the waters of Lyme Bay. If you want to shore dive instead, check out our guide to Chesil Cove. Other causes of shipwrecks include mechanical failure and rough coastal weather on unforgiving rocky shores. [11] As a measure against submarine attack, the battleship HMS Hood was scuttled across the harbour's southern entrance in 1914. [11] Part of the Falklands War task force sailed from Portland in 1982. General History Group created on November 15, 2013. [37] The AUWE later became infamous for espionage infiltration, known as the Portland Spy Ring.[38]. Four of these were mounted on the main deck in casemates on the sides of the hull and suffered from the same problems as the six-inch guns. SCHOONER DEVORAN. She measures 260 by 32 and stands 7 metres in places. Name last changed on November Going far out from the area could lead to deeper grounds with depths ranging in excess of 35 metres but sticking to shore, especially in the kelp beds, divers can see plenty of sea life, crabs and lobsters. Easily accessibly via Dive Boats shuttling out of Portland Marina and Castletown these wrecks are shallower than 20m and can be dived on all state of tides. Boscawen was herself replaced in 1873 by HMS Trafalgar, which took on the same name. [71][72] Further along the arm is a 29 millimetre spigot mortar emplacement. Her waterline main belt ranged in thickness between 14 to 18 inches (356 to 457mm) thick. Shipwrecks in Oregon Ideal for diving all season. Webmore pictures and details of portland shipwrecks can be found here. At the bow it dipped down to reinforce the ship's ram.[13]. Her highest point is at 47 metres and she is reported to be lying upside down against a high reef. [87], Coordinates: .mw-parser-output .geo-default,.mw-parser-output .geo-dms,.mw-parser-output .geo-dec{display:inline}.mw-parser-output .geo-nondefault,.mw-parser-output .geo-multi-punct{display:none}.mw-parser-output .longitude,.mw-parser-output .latitude{white-space:nowrap}503506N 22642W / 50.585N 2.445W / 50.585; -2.445. Hood's secondary armament consisted of ten 40-calibre 6-inch Mk I-III guns mounted in casemates in the superstructure. [30] At the same time, a new headquarters for the Admiralty Gunnery Establishment (AGE), which had transferred to Portland from Teddington, was built at Southwell between 194952; it, however, transferred again in 1959 (to Portsdown Hill), allowing the building to be taken over by the Admiralty Underwater Weapons Establishment (AUWE), formed from an amalgamation of different establishments from different parts of the UK involved in researching and developing underwater weapons and detection systems (including HMUDE, which nevertheless remained in its Balaclava Bay premises). [33], On 1 May 1944, the harbour was commissioned as USNAAB Portland-Weymouth. The 6-inch gun was removed in 1924 and in 1934 two 12-pounder guns were transferred across from the recently decommissioned B Pier Head. [47], The harbour is a popular location for wind surfing, wreck diving and sailing. Low freeboard had been popular for around ten years since it required less armour and made a smaller target for gunfire to hit, although it had the disadvantage that it reduced seaworthiness. Websince 2010 for the Portland Harbor site, to evaluate natural resource injuries incurred over time in areas contaminated with hazardous substances (such as DDT, PCBs, and others), and oil. She was replaced by HMS Boscawen in 1866 (following Britannia's relocation to Dartmouth). The coastal battery opened in 1901 and was armed with two 12-pounder quick-firing (QF) guns for anti-torpedo craft defence. This is reported to be a wreck with a deck at 58 metres sitting at 70+ metres of a sea bed and 400 ft long. One of the few large wrecks on the East side of the bill. [49] The outer breakwater is also Grade II Listed. Sunk in December 1944. One of the first arrivals at the new set up was a prison ship HM Prison Weare, which remained in use until 2006. Shipwrecks - Geoff Kirby Hood also mounted a dozen QF 3-pounder Hotchkiss guns mounted in the superstructure and fighting tops. In its entirety, the Harbour is an ecosystem of very high importance including a number of nationally important habitats and species. [56] At the end of Castletown village is the former Dockyard Police Station - also Grade II Listed. WebThe Portland Harbor Museum's exhibit presents the variety of shipwreck causes, both man-made and natural that occurred over the years. These plans were not carried through, however a floating dry dock was introduced in 1914, enabling Portland to function as a repair and refit facility,[4] and by 1914 Portland was officially listed as a Naval Dockyard (remaining so until 1959). A DETAILED HISTORY OF THIS SHIP AND ITS MISHAPS CAN BE READ BY CLICKING HERE. In 1944 emplacements were constructed for two 6-pounder guns, but the guns were not mounted for a number of years. Pictures: The shipwrecks of Portland and Chesil WebHarbour Wrecks Easily accessibly via Dive Boats shuttling out of Portland Marina and Castletown these wrecks are shallower than 20m and can be dived on all state of tides. SMB Required. Webmore pictures and details of portland shipwrecks can be found here. At times this area is used to conduct training deep dives that require a depth deeper than 18 metres. to British and foreign naval vessels. However the opportunity did not develop until the end of the 20th century, with the withdrawal of the Royal Navy. It is badly broken up with large pieces of machinery present and lying in a rock shingle sea bed. It is generally accepted that she sunk after diving with the hangar doors open (as they are today). Better still, the premises boasts a number of additional facilities from rinsing showers to drying rooms, toilets and excellent cafe, even on-site accommodation if you want to stay local. Shipwrecks - Geoff Kirby This German submarine sank in May 1918. Harbour Wrecks Another good resource of dive site information can be found at the Dive Beyond Dive Sites page travelling from Castletown beach using RHIBs. In the 20th century, Portland became increasingly renowned for its training and research facilities. She measures 230 by 30 and is fairly broken up lying North to South with its highest point 6 to 7 metres off the sea bed. TRIPLE-EXPANSION ENGINE. The site was also the location of a coastal battery, known as A Pier Head Battery, which opened in 1901 and was armed with two 12-pounder quick-firing (QF) guns for anti-torpedo craft defence. This facility was open by Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh in April 2009 and is situated directly adjacent to the National Sailing Academy. Project Baseline is a nonprofit, tax-exempt charitable organization (tax identification number 88-0481587) under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. Picking up and dropping off at Castletown Jetty just minutes away from all the harbour wrecks is Dive Beyond operating two diving RIBS with ladders. A DETAILED REPORT ON THIS ACCIDENT CAN BE READ BY CLICKING HERE. (Harbour wall to 16m.) [70], On the North Eastern Breakwater, within the centre area, is a World War II coastal battery with coast artillery searchlights. Today, Salsette lies on her port side in 45m with her starboard rail around 32m. This 4600 ton three masted steamer was launched in 1853 and after serving in the Crimean war as a large troopship, was sold as a coal hulk. [64] Further along the same arm, towards Portland, are two World War II coast artillery searchlights. In 1914, the Grand Fleet assembled in Portland Harbour before sailing to Scapa Flow. JAMES FENNELL SS. [14], The ship rejoined the Mediterranean Fleet at the end of 1901, and Captain Robert Lowry was appointed in command on 1 May 1902. [73] On the far end of the North Eastern Breakwater, on the Weymouth side, is the site of B Pier Head Battery. During World War II a number of anti-invasion structures were placed at Balaclava Bay, including an anti boat landing obstacle,[81] and a minefield. 215 TONS, 123X22FT. SHE WAS DEMOLISHED WITH EXPLOSIVES IN 1904. She lies broken but is a good dive and can be clearly made out as a submarine. [6], Over time, Portland was successively the base for the Channel and Home Fleets, as well as part of the Reserve Fleet, and it also served as a depot for submarines. The M2 is a one-of-a-kind submarine aircraft carrier which sank off Portland in 1932 during routine exercises (see panel). [29], In 1917 the RNAS seaplane base at Portland was commissioned as HMS Sarepta. She took part in combined exercises of the Channel Fleet, Mediterranean Fleet, and Home Fleet off the coast of Portugal from 5 to 9 August 1903. WebWith the weather at gale force, the tug started to tow the Aeolian Sky into the storm to try to make the shelter of Portland Harbour. Mined in June 1940, all that remains is the well-scattered remains of the bow section of this Britich oil tanker of 7101 tons. Construction of the harbour began in 1849; when completed in 1872, its 520-hectare (1,300-acre) surface area made it the largest man-made harbour in the world, and remains one of the largest in the world today. On descending, follow the wall down until you reach the gravel and sandy bottom at about 18 metres. A NORWEGIAN BARQUE (GRIMSTAD) GT 607. The Dredger lies right outside of Portland Harbour within the sheltered bay of Balaclava (in front of the large winch). Commercial activities on the water include specialist diving services for vessels and repairs & maintenance as well as a bunkering (fuelling) station. 25-32m RANGE: M2 submarine, Aeolian Sky, Binnedijk, Alex Van Opstel, St. Dunstan. Offshore wrecks PORTLAND, Ore. A driver died after crashing on NE Marine Drive early Monday morning, according to Portland police. A fine modern and recent wreck lying off St Albans Head. This low freeboard meant that Hood was very wet in rough weather and her maximum speed reduced rapidly as the wave height increased, making her only suitable for service in the relatively calm Mediterranean. It is believed there have been at least 1,000 shipwrecks along the Dorset coast over the centuries. Shonas Wrecks [6], After the war, in 1946, ten Phoenix caissons of the Mulberry Harbour were towed back to Portland, eight of which were later given to the Netherlands to repair storm breaches in the dykes in 1953. [19] By 1903, the East Weares Rifle Range served the navy and other military soldiers on the eastern side of the island. 40-60m RANGE: Salsette, Buccaneer, Merchant Royal, Warrior 2. Project Baseline is a nonprofit, tax-exempt charitable organization (tax identification number 88-0481587) under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. Both of these wrecks lie in very close proximity and make an excellent double-wreck dive by starting off at the Landing Craft, following a line laid by local dive operators to the Bombardon Unit and returning back to entry point or surfacing on an SMB (please consult the skipper on what method is preferred for the dive). The battleship Russell relieved Hood on 28 September 1904. Portland Harbor GT 213. It is an interesting dive that leads to the wheel house and exposed engine at the stern. 35-40m RANGE: Pomeranian, Moidart, Ailsa Craig, Arfon, Frognor, P555, UB74. PORTLAND HARBOUR WRECKS The commercial port has expanded since its initial establishment; the Britannia Passenger Terminal was opened by HRH Prince Philip on 14 July 1999. SS PATROCLUS SALVAGE OPERATION 1907. Shipwrecks - portlandharbormuseum.org This small landing craft lies beside the Breakwater wall and close to the Bombardon unit. Although mortally wounded he continued to fire his gun against the attackers until he died. The wreck's hull structure remains largely in tact and makes her one of Other causes of shipwrecks include mechanical failure and rough coastal weather on unforgiving rocky shores. Inshore wrecks Especially in good sea conditions a dive on the deeper edge of the shambles can be very rewarding for divers with varying interests. Depending on the tide, divers can get a good drift dive in this area. Portland Port Ltd, formed in December 1994, took possession of the site immediately and their purchase was completed on 12 December 1996. A well-broken steamship of about 2000 tons standing 6 metres off the sea bed. An ex American submarine sunk on purpose, upright, as a sonar target in August 1947. This 80 MFV was last heard of in 1974 and all crew were lost. Her wreck became known as "Old Hole in the Wall". This 5965 ton Belgian passenger liner, 420 with 57 beam, sunk in September 1939 by a mine en route to Antwerp. General History Group created on November 15, 2013. Slack water is +1/2 hours HW Portland or -4 Hours HW Portland. The original harbour was naturally protected by the south coast of England, Chesil Beach and the Isle of Portland, providing refuge for ships against weather in all directions except east. She is approximately 240 long and with a 29 beam she lies upright on the bottom making an excellent dive for novice and experienced alike. [4], Coaling facilities were initially integrated into the design of the inner breakwater. She stands 8 metres high in some places. [19] Subsequently, she was photographed in dry dock at Portsmouth by the crew of Naval Airship No. This 1916 ton steamer torpedoed in Lyme Bay in July 1917 and stands 5 to 6 metre in places. If youre looking for local, recreational diving, whether it be wrecks, reefs or drift, check out the. Inshore wrecks WebFate: Sunk 04 November 1914 as a blockship for southern entrance to Portland Harbour, designed to stop U-boats entering or firing torpedoes into Channel Fleet anchorage. [24] Before being installed on the battlecruiser, the bell was inscribed around the base with the words: "This bell was preserved from HMS Hood battleship 18911914 by the late rear admiral, The Honourable Sir Horace Hood KCB, DSO, MVO killed at Jutland on 31st May 1916. Be careful in poor visibility as it is easy to find oneself in the wreck without even knowing it! [25], Support facilities for the fleet were also added over time, including a canteen and recreation ground. Language links are at the top of the page across from the title. These have a total length of 4.57km (2.84mi) and enclose approximately 1,000ha (2,500 acres) of water. [9], The ship was armed with four 32-calibre BL 13.5-inch Mk IIV guns in two twin gun turrets, one fore and aft of the superstructure. The seabed is made out of shifting gravel and parts of the wreck stand 7 metres high. On descending, follow the wall down until you reach the gravel and sandy bottom at about 18 metres. LOST OFF OF PORTLAND WITH ALL LIVES JANUARY 26TH 1932, ITEMS RETRIEVED FROM WRECK OF HM SUBMARINE M2. These wrecks are accessible? C E HEINKE AND COs DIVING APPARATUS WAS USED IN THE SUCCESSFUL SALVAGE OPERATIONS. This 1080 ton British submarine measures 230 by 24 and sunk in 1924 after a collusion with the HMS Resolution. Eight water-tube boilers provided steam to the engines, which produced a maximum of 11,000 indicated horsepower (8,200kW) when forced. VII gun. [10] The breakwaters were declared complete by HRH Edward the Prince of Wales on 10 August 1872. This is a British cargo ship of 5000 tons lying South of Portland. In April 2000 the contract was signed for a new bunkering jetty and berth, which came into service in 2005. Above 18m: The Countess of Erne - divernet.com SS PREVEZA AND SALVAGE TUG ASHORE AT CHESIL COVE JAN 15TH 1920, PLEASE CLICK HERE TO READ THE FULL DRAMATIC STORY BEHIND THIS ACCIDENT WHICH OCCURRED ON 4TH JUNE 1949. [8] During 1848, HM Prison Portland was established to provide convict labour to quarry the stone needed to construct the breakwaters and the harbour defences. [78] On site is a World War II 29 millimetre spigot mortar emplacement.[79][80]. S.S. SANDAL ON FIRE PORTLAND HARBOUR 1907. Portland Harbour Wrecks [6] There was opposition against the closure from the local economy, as well as all ranks of naval personnel, who felt Portland's surrounding coast was perfect for exercising ships. [65][66], On the northeast breakwater, at the southern end, directly opposite the fort, is the Portland Breakwater Lighthouse. WebPortland Harbour offers half a dozen of wreck sites, one of the most popular and intact of these is the Countess Of Erne ~ one of the most popular Portland Harbour wreck sites, Depth Max 16m.
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