News
Divers warned not to enter Scylla wreck in Cornwall
Scuba divers are being told not to dive inside the Scylla wreck in Whitsand Bay, Cornwall, UK – because it’s “too dangerous”.
The warning comes following the results of the 2014 Scylla Reef Condition Survey, which found that a number of factors could be hazardous to divers.
The survey – which was conduced by underwater specialists – has confirmed the corrosion levels of the wreck have increased based upon the 2013 findings, with further collapsing of fittings, bulk heads and deck heads, causing cables to become free hanging and collapsing of internal fittings.
As the condition of the wreck deteriorates and corrosion worsens on the artificial reef, further debris from the site will loosen and cause access difficulties to scuba divers wishing to penetrate the wreck.
Due to these hazardous conditions, Dr David Gibson, managing director of the National Marine Aquarium, is recommending that divers do not attempt to enter the former Royal Navy vessel.
He said: “The wreck would appear to be deteriorating in exactly the way we would expect a modern steel ship to after 10 years on the seabed.
“However, we recommend dives on the Syclla Reef are now restricted to scenic dives around the exterior of the vessel only and the confines of the vessel should not be entered.
“The inside of the wreck is simply too dangerous now to consider penetrating the compartments.”
The survey indicates that the storms of late 2013 and early 2014 may have helped scour out some of the silt; however, this has led to further issues.
The report states that there is clear evidence of storm damage on the wreck and its marine life;S more so on the starboard side.
Debris is gathered around the hull, particularly near the stern and underneath the rudder.
Sections of fishing net, encrusted gill net, wire, pipes and rope are scattered across the seabed along with sheets of metal, fittings from inside the wreck and original fire hose reel.
Dr Gibson added: “Whilst the loss of encrusting marine life on the exterior of the vessel is regrettable, we are certain it will rapidly re-colonize over the next couple of seasons, and there should be no long term effects from the winter storms.
“The presence of commercial fishing gear around the wreck indicates that it is still being targeted by commercial fisherman, capitalizing on the wreck’s success as an artificial reef.
“The presence of large numbers of commercially important species on the wreck further reinforces the role these types of projects have to play as part of a comprehensively managed network of marine protected areas.”
The National Marine Aquarium, based at Coxside, has been involved with managing Scylla Reef since it was first sunk in 2004.
Richard Stevenson, owner of Diving and Marine Solution (DMS) – which carried out the survey, also revealed that divers have been “vandalising” the wreck.
“Personally I have been involved with every one of the four surveys DMS has undertaken in the capacity of underwater photographer and videographer,” he said.
“It has been an amazing experience seeing the change in the reef from year to year, but also an immense disappointment witnessing the unnecessary vandalism that occurs as well.
“I will never understand what prompts a diver to try and remove protective bars and bolts that are placed to safeguard their very safety.”
Since 2004 a number of divers have died while diving on the Scylla.
Source: www.plymouthherald.co.uk
Photo: Sally Sharrock
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Renowned anti-whaling activist Paul Watson has been released from custody in Greenland after spending five months in detention. Denmark’s Justice Ministry rejected Japan’s request for his extradition, citing insufficient guarantees that his time already served in custody would be credited against any potential sentence.
The 74-year-old Canadian-American was arrested on July 21 in Nuuk, Greenland’s capital, when his ship docked to refuel. His arrest was based on a 2012 Japanese warrant related to a 2010 encounter in Antarctic waters. Japan alleged Watson obstructed operations and caused damage to a whaling research ship during efforts to disrupt illegal whaling. Watson has consistently denied these claims, maintaining his commitment to marine conservation.
Denmark, which oversees extradition matters for Greenland, concluded that while the legal conditions for extradition were met, the lack of assurances from Japan regarding time-served credit made extradition untenable.
In a video shared by his foundation, Watson expressed gratitude and relief, saying, “After five months, it’s good to be out… and good to know they’re not sending me to Japan.” He added that the most difficult part of his time in custody was being separated from his two young sons.
Watson is a pioneering figure in marine conservation, known for founding the Captain Paul Watson Foundation in 2022 after decades of activism with the Sea Shepherd Conservation Society. His bold efforts to defend marine life have earned him widespread support, including from celebrities and conservationists. His work has also been featured in the acclaimed reality TV series Whale Wars.
Watson’s lawyer, Jonas Christoffersen, praised the decision, stating, “We are happy and relieved that Paul Watson is now free.” He added that Watson is eager to reunite with his family and continue his vital work.
The arrest occurred while Watson’s vessel, the M/Y John Paul DeJoria, was en route to the North Pacific with a team of 26 volunteers to intercept a Japanese whaling ship. His foundation described the arrest as politically motivated and emphasized that Watson’s actions were focused on ending illegal whaling practices.
Japan resumed commercial whaling in 2019 after leaving the International Whaling Commission, asserting that whale meat is a cultural tradition. Conservationists, however, continue to challenge these practices, highlighting their impact on marine ecosystems.
Despite the challenges, Watson remains steadfast in his mission to protect marine life and bring attention to whaling practices. His dedication to ocean conservation has made him a globally respected advocate for the environment.
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