News
Project Highball wins the Duke of Cambridge Scuba Award
Project Highball, led by divers from East Cheshire Sub Aqua Club and team members from five different BSAC clubs, was recently given Royal recognition with an award from His Royal Highness The Duke of Cambridge.
In conjunction with the BSAC Jubilee Trust, an award has historically been presented by HRH Duke of Edinburgh to the best underwater scientific project carried out by BSAC members. The Duke of Edinburgh created the prize when he was President of BSAC and the Jubilee Trust (the official charity of BSAC) and he personally judged the projects submitted and awarded the Prize. As The Duke of Edinburgh has now retired, The Duke of Cambridge has taken over the judging of the prize from 2017 onwards. The first of the Duke of Cambridge Scuba Prizes was awarded to Project Highball and was personally selected by the Duke who was very interested in the historical significance of the project.
Project Highball took place in July 2017 with two years of planning going into the preparations for the one week project. A team of specialist divers from five different BSAC clubs, commercial marine services companies and a team of mine clearance divers from the Royal Navy’s Northern Dive Group came together to survey Loch Striven and to lift two Highball Bombs from the bed of Loch Striven.
The Highball bombs were invented by Sir Barnes Wallis, and used the same technology as the Upkeep bouncing bombs that were used to such devastating effect against the dams of the Ruhr valley in the now famous Dambusters Raids. The Highball bombs were smaller than the Upkeep bombs and were designed to be used against Germany’s capital ships, in particular the Tirpitz (Sister Ship of the Bismark).
The Tirpitz was considered a huge threat to allied shipping and there were numerous attempts made to sink the ship using high level bombing and Midget Submarines. The Highball Bombs were designed to skip across the water and could be dropped over a kilometer away from the target and them skip over torpedo nets and hit their target; once at the target the spin of the bomb would keep them tight against the hull of the target ship and then they would explode underneath the armour belt when triggered by a depth charge fuse.
The Air Force created a specialist squadron (618 Squadron) to deliver the bombs using the lighter and faster Mosquito Bomber. 618 Squadron spent over a year on Loch Striven practicing with the bombs and perfecting the technology. Loch Striven was also the site of X-Craft testing and commando training and in 1943 was one of the most secret places in the UK. Shrouded by smoke screens and patrolled by guards, the activity in the Loch was kept top secret, leading to the Loch being known as the Secret Loch. Nearly 75 years later there are no intact examples of the Highball bombs anywhere in the world, so with the 75thAnniversary of Dambusters in 2018 looming, the interest in the bouncing bombs was bound to be high.
The Highball Project built on work done by Dr Iain Murray, who having written a number of books on the Upkeep bouncing bombs, identified Loch Striven as the site for the Highball tests from now-declassified military documents and excerpts from the test films that are now available from the Imperial War Museum. Dr Murray was convinced that some of the bombs would remain in the Loch and as luck would have it, Mark Paisey heard about his research and went up to Dundee to meet with him and the idea for Project Highball was born.
Planning for the project took two years, bringing together a set of skills that would enable the team to survey the loch and work on two sites, one in 35m of water and the other in 65m of water. Teams of specialists were identified and with everyone giving their time for free, the team managed to secure the services of a commercial survey company (Aspect Surveys). This brought in high definition Sidescan Sonar via GSE Rentals and Klein Marine Systems who supplied a state of the art high frequency towfish which was the first of its kind in the UK and used on the project as a trial.
In addition to this, we also secured the services of a professional ROV operator (Subsea Tooling Services) and the Royal Navy’s Northern Dive Group who were able to confirm the bombs were inert practice rounds and give us a Free From Explosives (FFE) certificate. The Royal Navy Dive team also brought a support vessel with a 10 tonne crane which made the actual lifting of the bombs much easier.
Our week in Loch Striven was planned in detail and consisted of a diver led jackstay search and detailed sidescan mapping of three different areas of the Loch, two target sites where we believe the bombs were dropped, and also a wider search for evidence of submarine operations (and the rumor of a lost Wellman Submarine). The search for the submarine proved fruitless but we did identify the bomb site and a large-scale debris field with over 100 highball bombs and we used this data to focus the lifting operations. We also found 5 X-Craft side charges – large 8 meter structures that were filled with two tonnes of explosive and bolted onto the side of an X-Craft submarine, then deposited on the seabed underneath a target ship.
Having identified suitable targets for lifting we directed the Navy Team to commence operations and the latter part of the week was focused on lifting two bombs for conservation and eventual donation to UK museums. Of the bombs we recovered for the museums, the Navy Team recovered one and the BSAC Team recovered the other. Both bombs are now undergoing conservation and one will be on display at the DeHavilland Museum in London Colney. The second will be on display as part of the Barnes Wallace Foundation at the Brooklands Museum in Surrey in time for the Dambusters Anniversary in 2018.
Team Highball produced a detailed dive trail which enables anyone to go and visit the Highballs in situ on the seabed:
Kevin Phillips, ECSAC Diving Officer said:
“All in all, the project was a huge success. From a personal point of view it was a real privilege to be part of the team and I really enjoyed diving with a purpose. So much so, that I have now started some Nautical Archeology Training and am aiming to run some more projects with East Cheshire Sub Aqua Club in the future as we have really caught the bug.”
You can find more details of the project, as well as the detailed survey results on the East Cheshire Sub Aqua Club website here.
You can view a 20 minute documentary on the Highball Project at www.youtube.com/watch?v=pVWhyhjF6NY
Ho Ho Ho! Vobster Quay’s recording-breaking charity Santa diving event returns on Sunday 15th December 2024 for another round of festive fundraising frivolities. Run in aid of the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) and Help For Heroes, this ever-popular annual fundraising event aims to raise sack-loads of cash for these two very deserving charities.
Divers of all levels are invited to grab their Santa outfits – and as much festive cheer as they can muster – and head down to Vobster Quay near Mells, Somerset for a mass sponsored Santa dive in aid of charity. In previous years, the event has attracted divers from the far corners of the UK to join in the festive merriment for a final festive dive before the Christmas and New Year break. Back in 2015, the event smashed the world record for the most Santa divers with 188 divers taking to the waters donning their festive finery – a record that remains unbeaten to this day!
Vobster Santas isn’t just about setting records – it’s also about raising some serious cash for charity. Vobster Quay encourages all divers to get into the spirit of the season to raise much-needed funds for two very deserving charities – the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) and Help For Heroes.
Through individual sponsorship and online donations, divers can invite their friends, family and work colleagues to sponsor them to plunge into the balmy waters of Vobster Quay dressed in full festive finery. Since the very first Santa dive in 2007, the event has raised over £52,000 for charity. “It’s been over 17 years since the very first charity Santa dive took place at Vobster Quay and every year the event just keeps getting bigger and better” enthused Vobster Quay owner, Amy Stanton.
“Vobster Santas is a great way for divers to say a massive thank you to the both the RNLI and Help For Heroes – two very deserving charities close to our hearts. We’re immensely proud of all that Vobster Santas has achieved and hope that even more divers will join this year’s event on Sunday 15th December. I’m confident that we can make Vobster Santas 2024 the biggest yet!”.
Divers wishing to participate can get involved by simply registering their attendance at
www.vobster.com/event-vobstersantas.php.
Blogs
Dive into Adventure at Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa: The Ultimate Diving Destination in the Maldives
Tucked away in the remote northern Haa Alifu Atoll, Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa is a premier destination for anyone seeking an unforgettable underwater experience. With over 30 dive sites to explore, divers of all levels can witness the unique and mesmerising beauty of the underwater world. Whether you’re a seasoned diver or new to the sport, Hideaway offers an exceptional diving adventure that is not to be missed.
Explore the Beauty Beneath the Surface
Hideaway is perfectly situated near some of the most spectacular dive sites in the Maldives. The dive school and team at Hideaway offer a very personalised experience to ensure each diver gets an interactive, immersive experience.
Email: reservations@hideawaybeachmaldives.com / Call: +960 650-1515 / Website: www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com
Unique dive spots such as Theefaridhoo Thila (Heaven and Hell) as one of the 50 best dive sites in the whole of the Maldives, known for its beautiful soft coral gardens.
Email: reservations@hideawaybeachmaldives.com / Call: +960 650-1515 / Website: www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com
As the resort is located next to a channel which gives guests surprise visits from eagle rays, manta rays, guitar sharks and more.
Email: reservations@hideawaybeachmaldives.com / Call: +960 650-1515 / Website: www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com
One of the standout features of diving in the Haa Alifu Atoll is the abundance of rare and exotic marine species. The area is known for sightings of whale sharks, manta rays, turtles, and a variety of colorful reef fish. Diving at Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa offers a rare opportunity to encounter these creatures in their natural habitat, creating lifelong memories for guests.
Email: reservations@hideawaybeachmaldives.com / Call: +960 650-1515 / Website: www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com
Whether you’re exploring deep coral gardens, dramatic overhangs, or vibrant reef walls, each dive offers something new and exciting. The visibility in the Maldives is exceptional, often exceeding 30 meters, making it ideal for both underwater photography and general exploration.
Email: reservations@hideawaybeachmaldives.com / Call: +960 650-1515 / Website: www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com
Diving for All Levels
At Hideaway, we believe that everyone should have the opportunity to experience the thrill of diving. That’s why we cater to divers of all levels, from beginners to experienced professionals. Our professional dive center, led by expert instructors, offers a range of courses and guided dives. If you’re new to diving, you can start with an introductory course that will teach you the basics of scuba diving in a safe and controlled environment.
Email: reservations@hideawaybeachmaldives.com / Call: +960 650-1515 / Website: www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com
For more experienced divers, we offer advanced dive courses and guided excursions to some of the more challenging dive sites. Our instructors are knowledgeable and passionate about the local marine life, ensuring that every dive is not only safe but also informative and enjoyable.
Email: reservations@hideawaybeachmaldives.com / Call: +960 650-1515 / Website: www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com
Exclusive Diving Offer
To make your stay even more unforgettable, Hideaway is offering an exclusive diving package designed to enhance your experience both above and below the water. When you book a minimum 7-night stay, you’ll receive:
- 35% discount on room rates.
- Complimentary diving: 3 dives per person for 2 guests, allowing you to experience the beauty of the Maldives underwater world.
- Free meal plan upgrade: enjoy a complimentary upgrade from Bed & Breakfast to Half Board, or from Half Board to Full Board. Guests who prefer the White Platinum Plan (WPP) can avail it at a discounted rate.
This incredible offer provides the perfect opportunity to experience world-class diving while enjoying all the luxury and comfort that Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa is known for.
Email: reservations@hideawaybeachmaldives.com / Call: +960 650-1515 / Website: www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com
Combinable Offers for Even More Value
This diving offer can also be combined with our Anniversary and Honeymoon offers, allowing you to create the perfect celebration package. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone or simply seeking a romantic getaway, this offer ensures that you can enjoy the best of both worlds – luxurious accommodations and unforgettable diving adventures.
Email: reservations@hideawaybeachmaldives.com / Call: +960 650-1515 / Website: www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com
Terms & Conditions
- This offer is available exclusively for bookings made through the official Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa website using a specific booking code.
- The offer cannot be combined with other promotions available on the website or through other channels, nor can it be redeemed for cash.
- All dives are subject to weather conditions, ensuring the safety and enjoyment of all guests.
- Black-out dates: This offer is not available from 24th December 2024 to 9th January 2025.
To book this exquisite offer, use the Promo Code: SCUBA24FD
Email: reservations@hideawaybeachmaldives.com / Call: +960 650-1515 / Website: www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com
Hideaway is not just a resort; it’s a sanctuary for those seeking peace, adventure, and luxury. With spacious villas, private pools, and world-class dining options, the resort offers everything you need for a perfect holiday. From tennis, golf, gym, cycling to the exquisite underwater activities, unique dining options, Hideaway has something for everyone. And for diving enthusiasts, it provides an unparalleled opportunity to explore some of the most beautiful dive sites in the world.
Email: reservations@hideawaybeachmaldives.com / Call: +960 650-1515 / Website: www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com
Our dive center is fully equipped with state-of-the-art gear, ensuring that every dive is safe, comfortable, and enjoyable. Our instructors are passionate about the underwater world and are eager to share their knowledge with you, whether it’s your first dive or your 100th.
Email: reservations@hideawaybeachmaldives.com / Call: +960 650-1515 / Website: www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com
The Ultimate Dive Adventure Awaits
If you’re looking for an unforgettable diving holiday in the Maldives, look no further than Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa. With over 30 dive sites, unique marine life, and exclusive offers, we provide the ultimate underwater experience. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking adventure, our diving package offers exceptional value and incredible memories.
Book now through our official website to take advantage of this exclusive offer and prepare for the dive adventure of a lifetime.
Email: reservations@hideawaybeachmaldives.com
Call: +960 650-1515
Website: www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com
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