Dive Dorset by John and Vicki Hinchcliffe
Introduction: Exploring ‘Dive Dorset’ with John & Vicki Hinchcliffe
Today, we delve into Dive Dorset, the definitive guide to diving along England’s Jurassic Coast, authored by seasoned divers and maritime enthusiasts John and Vicki Hinchcliffe. This comprehensive guidebook offers an in-depth look at over 290 dive sites, including detailed accounts of wrecks, shore dives, and essential diving information, making it an indispensable resource for divers exploring the Dorset coastline.
John Hinchcliffe, renowned for his contributions to diving literature, is credited with the discovery of the Carantan wreck, a notable site featured in the guide. This find underscores the Hinchcliffes’ extensive experience and dedication to uncovering and documenting the rich maritime history of Dorset. Their collaborative efforts have resulted in a guide that not only serves as a practical manual but also as a testament to their passion for diving and maritime exploration.
Treasure Troves of Dorset: Wrecks and Sunken Finds
‘The almost unbelievable list of recent finds in Dorset waters includes gold watches and silver purses from the holds of the Kyarra, gold guineas, silver coins and diamonds from the Halsewell site, a gold pointer recovered from waist-deep water at Bowleaze, Spanish silver coins from the privateer Hope, almost £30,000 worth of lead ingots near Swanage, and the remarkable discovery from within the inky blackness of the interior of the great liner Salsette of a gentleman’s Victorian watch chain, hallmarked on each link.’
That, you will agree, makes a pretty good introduction to any diving guide. A great temptation to dive, it comes from the preface of Dive Dorset, the latest of the Diver Guides to get a complete upgrade.
These editions of the most important British diving guide series are more than just revisions. They contain new information, sites, colour photographs, wrecks and wreck pictures, many of which are published for the first time. They are effectively new books.
Comprehensive Guide for Every Diver
The third edition of Dive Dorset is packed with information, even giving divers a sunken Canadian steamer to search for – not a bad target, because in its holds are three tons of silver!
Two hundred and ninety-nine sites are now included. Of these, 183 are located wrecks, which means there are reports on 75 more wreck dives than in any previous edition.
Authors John Hinchcliffe and his wife Vicki have taken a long time to come up with this new edition, but the wait is worth it. They give close detail of shore dives, and have consulted, and thank in print, a mass of Dorset divers who have given priceless offshore wreck info.
It doesn’t seem possible that they have overlooked any facet of diving the 110 miles of Dorset coast – they even warn about the strength of the sun on Dorset waters and ‘strongly advise’ the use of a high-factor sun block, so I suspect they are also working for the Dorset Tourist Board, or perhaps a sun-lotion manufacturer!
All joking aside, don’t even think of diving anywhere off Dorset without buying a copy of this book.
Dive Dorset by John and Vicki Hinchcliffe. Publishers: Underwater World Publications – ISBN 10: 0946020264 ISBN 13: 9780946020263 Softback, 232pp, £7.90
FAQs
What is Dive Dorset by John and Vicki Hinchcliffe about?
Dive Dorset is a comprehensive guide to diving off Dorset’s coast, featuring 299 sites, including 183 wrecks, and new colour photos and site details.
What makes the latest edition of Dive Dorset special?
The third edition includes new wreck discoveries, previously unpublished photographs, and detailed shore and offshore dive information.
Are there any notable treasures mentioned in the book?
Yes, treasures include gold watches and silver purses from the Kyarra, gold guineas and diamonds from the Halsewell, and silver coins from the privateer Hope.
Is Dive Dorset suitable for all levels of divers?
Yes, the guide provides detailed information for both novice and experienced divers, including shore dives, offshore wrecks, and safety advice like sun protection.
Does the book include any unique diving targets?
It mentions a sunken Canadian steamer with three tons of silver, offering a rare and exciting target for adventurous divers.
