Our much-anticipated scuba diving trip to Normandy was initially planned to span five days. However, due to unexpected poor weather conditions, our adventure was shortened. We sailed from Eastbourne to Dieppe on the 17th of June 2024, and returned the following day. Despite the brief duration, the trip offered memorable diving experiences and delightful culinary encounters that made the journey worthwhile.
The journey began early on the 17th of June as we set sail from Eastbourne towards Dieppe. Though a long trip we were all in good spirits in anticipation of our first dive of the trip as we neared the French coast.
The first dive was at the SS Oijfeld, a wreck teeming with marine life. As we descended, we were greeted by a mesmerizing sight – an abundance of fish so dense that the wreck itself was almost obscured. The SS Oijfeld, resting peacefully on the seabed, is a Norwegian Steam Ship built in 1912. She sits upright with her rudder and props still in place. She was enveloped in a thriving underwater ecosystem. Schools of fish darted around us, creating a dynamic underwater landscape. The combination of excellent visibility and abundant marine life made this dive an unforgettable experience.
Once all were back on the boat we approached Dieppe. The weather was clear, offering us a glimpse of the picturesque French coastline. Dieppe’s harbour welcomed us with its charming blend of old-world fishing village ambiance and modern marina facilities. With little time to spare we disembarked and headed straight for our accommodation in order to quickly freshen up in time for dinner. Dieppe is renowned for its excellent French cuisine, and we were eager to sample its offerings. We dined at a local restaurant known for its fresh seafood and traditional dishes. The flavours were exquisite, with each dish showcasing the rich culinary heritage of the region.
Day two started with a hearty breakfast at a local boulangerie where we bought delicious coffee and croissants as well as provisions for lunch on our return journey. With special thanks to our French diver Elliot who was on hand to assist with interpretation and to introduce us to regional delights. We then headed back to the boat for the next stage of our adventure.
Our first dive of the day was on the HMS Daffodil, one of three train ferry ships built during World War I and requisitioned by the Navy in World War II, before striking a mine in 1945 and coming to rest on the bottom of the seabed. This dive offered a fascinating glimpse into the past, with the ship’s structure still remarkably intact. We carefully navigated around the wreck, taking in the details of its construction and the marine life that had made it their home. The HMS Daffodil, with its historical significance and intriguing features, provided a unique and educational dive experience.
Our final dive of the trip was back in UK waters on the RMS Alaunia, a Cunard Ocean Liner built in 1913. When World War I began, she was requisitioned as a troopship and was the first Cunard ship to carry Canadian troops. She was sent in the Gallipoli campaign in the summer of 1915, and worked on carrying troops to Bombay later the same year. During a voyage from London to New York in 1916 she struck a mine in the English Channel. After attempts to beach the ship and tow her to shore with tugs, her captain realized the ship was lost and finally gave the order to abandon ship. On our dive we were able to fully appreciate the grandeur of this sunken vessel, with its intricate details and impressive size, it a fitting conclusion to our diving adventures.
Our scuba diving trip to Normandy, though shorter than planned, was packed with memorable experiences. The journey from Eastbourne to Dieppe, the excellent diving conditions, and the delightful French cuisine all contributed to a fantastic adventure. The unexpected change in plans added an element of spontaneity that only enhanced our enjoyment. Despite the brevity of the trip, we left Normandy with a sense of fulfilment and a collection of wonderful memories that will last a lifetime.
