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Mission To Survey Shipwrecks Lost During ‘Operation Dynamo’ –The Evacuation Of Allied Troops From Dunkirk In 1940

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  • Drassm in partnership with Historic England, is aiming to locate shipwrecks lost during Operation Dynamo lying in French waters
  • High-tech geophysical survey equipment will be used from 25 September to 13 October 2023 to examine more than 30 vessels sunk during the evacuation
  • Taking place over nine days during the Second World War (26 May – 4 Jun 1940), more than 338,000 Allied soldiers were rescued by sea from Dunkirk in the north of France

A research project to detect and identify undiscovered shipwrecks lost during the rescue of 338,226 Allied troops from Dunkirk in France during ‘Operation Dynamo’ in May/June 1940 is being launched by Drassm – France’s Department of Underwater Archaeological Research – in partnership with Historic England, the public body responsible for England’s heritage.

Operation Dynamo was a key event in the early stages of the Second World War. It involved the evacuation across the English Channel of 338,226 Allied soldiers who were surrounded by the German army. From 26 May to 4 June 1940, military, transport, fishing and service vessels, as well as pleasure craft, were used to carry out this operation. Over a thousand ships – flying British, French, Belgian, Dutch, Polish, Danish, Norwegian and Swedish flags – were involved in the nine days and nights of the evacuation.

Duncan Wilson, Chief Executive of Historic England, said:

“The evacuation from Dunkirk marked a critical point in the history of the Second World War. We are honoured to have been invited by the French marine heritage agency, Drassm, to join their investigation of ships sunk in those desperate days. These wrecks are a physical legacy to Operation Dynamo and all those it affected, including many who did not reach safety.”

New archaeological research to locate lost shipwrecks sunk in Operation Dynamo

More than 305 vessels were lost during Operation Dynamo. Research in 2021-2023 by Claire Destanque (Aix-Marseille University) has revealed new information about the location and condition of these wrecks. Thirty seven wrecks linked to Operation Dynamo have already been located in French waters, in particular by divers from Dunkirk and the surrounding area. A further 31 vessels are believed to have been lost in the area but have yet to be located.

The 2023 campaign will search for these undiscovered wrecks and document the sites that are already known using geophysical survey equipment (multibeam echosounder, side scan sonar and magnetometer). This study, which will be followed by diving surveys in 2024, will provide an overall view of this heritage and enable the introduction of conservation and public engagement strategies.

The operation is being led by Drassm (operation managers Cécile Sauvage and Claire Destanque, archaeologists). It will be conducted from the André Malraux, a DRASSM research vessel captained by Fabien Géreux (Bourbon Offshore Surf). The campaign will involve geophysicists from DRASSM and Historic England.

This mission is the first collaboration between Drassm and Historic England. The initial results of this research will be shared with the public at events organised from 13 to 15 October in partnership with the Communauté Urbaine de Dunkerque.

Why this research is important

This campaign by Drassm and Historic England is a unique opportunity to:

  • Expand historical and scientific knowledge on both sides of the Channel about Operation Dynamo and the maritime dimension of the evacuation;
  • Enrich the content of the Dunkirk War Museum (data, photos, videos, etc.), in particular the future permanent exhibition at the Maison d’Accueil du Grande Site at the Ferme Nord in Zuydcoote;

Inform discussions about a memorial for the Allied soldiers and seafarers who died at sea during Operation Dynamo.

About Historic England

We are Historic England the public body that helps people care for, enjoy and celebrate England’s spectacular historic environment, from beaches and battlefields to parks and pie shops. We protect, champion and save the places that define who we are where we’ve come from as a nation. We care passionately about the stories they tell, the ideas they represent and the people who live, work and play among them. Working with communities and specialists we share our passion, knowledge and skills to inspire interest, care and conservation, so everyone can keep enjoying and looking after the history that surrounds us all.

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Experience a night Dive at the West Rock Shipwreck with Euro-Divers

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There’s something magical about night diving— the ocean transforms into a whole new world, alive with mystery and wonder. At Euro-Divers Meeru, we love sharing this unique experience with our guests, and the West Rock Shipwreck is one of our favourite sites for night diving.

Here’s why:

Setting the Scene

The adventure begins at 17:30 as divers gather on the boat. After thoroughly checking our equipment, the boat departs for the dive site. The 15-minute journey is a treat, with the calm sea and the soft glow of the setting sun creating the perfect atmosphere.

Arriving at West Rock, the boat gently moors above the wreck. As our team briefs you on the dive, we will walk you through the special night diving techniques, such as using a torch and maintaining buddy contact, ensuring you feel confident and prepared. While we wait for the sun to set, there is time to relax with a cup of tea or coffee and take in the breathtaking colours of the Maldivian sunset.

shipwreck

The Dive Begins

Once darkness settles, it’s time to dive. The West Rock Shipwreck—a small cargo freighter sunk in 1999—rests at 20 meters on a sandy plateau. Over the years, it has become a vibrant reef, teeming with marine life.

As we descend, the beams of our torches cut through the dark water, revealing the wreck’s coral-covered surfaces. It is always thrilling to see the wreck come to life under the light. Colourful nudibranchs, scorpionfish, frogfish, and shrimps are just a few of the creatures that call this wreck home.

We often find parrotfish and pufferfish inside the wreck settled in for the night, while lionfish and moray eels lurk in the shadows. We frequently spot larger residents, too—Napoleon wrasse or even a resting nurse shark, peacefully tucked away beneath the ship’s hull. Every corner of the wreck offers something new to discover.

Underwater Galaxy

As the dive comes to an end, we have one final highlight to share. During the safety stop at 5 metres, we may ask you to switch off your torch and gently move your hands through the water. This action stirs up bioluminescent plankton, lighting up like tiny stars surrounding you— a magical, otherworldly experience that never fails to amaze.

Post-Dive Bliss

Emerging from the dive, we are welcomed by the cool night air and a canopy of stars. The boat crew helps us as we climb aboard, where hot tea or coffee awaits to warm us up. The journey back to shore is filled with shared stories and a sense of camaraderie that only diving together can create.

Night dives like this one at the West Rock Shipwreck offer more than just an exploration of marine life; they remind us of the beauty and mystery of the underwater world.

For more information, contact the Euro-Divers Meeru team at meeru@euro-divers.com or visit www.euro-divers.com.

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Exclusive Red Sea Diving Safari for Family & Friends on VIP ONE

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vip one

Imagine a week of world-class diving, luxury, and adventure—all aboard your own private liveaboard! VIP ONE offers the perfect blend of comfort, style, and exceptional diving in the stunning Northern Red Sea.

vip one

June, July & August are THE best times of year to dive the Red Sea- with 29 degrees water temperature, less boats, the legendary Ras Mohammed National Marine Park is buzzing with life. Guaranteed schooling fish, perfect conditions with 16 hours of daylight to maximise your diving opportunities!

vip one

Charter the entire yacht for just €10,000 (up to 10 passengers) – that’s only €1,000per person for an unforgettable 5-star diving experience!

For more information or to book, email info@vipone.com.

www.vipone.com

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