As 2024 draws to a close, the Christmas Dive and Party hosted by Maverick and Renegade in Dover brought the diving community together for an unforgettable day of underwater exploration and festive cheer. A big thank you goes out to all the divers who participated in the event, marking the season with camaraderie, adventure, and celebration.
Diving Into History
The day began with divers assembling on three vessels: Renegade, captained by Tom; Maverick, with Chris at the helm; and Black Cat, overseen by Gerry. The teams were split across these boats, setting out to explore distinct underwater sites steeped in maritime history. Renegade’s divers targeted the wreck of HMS Flirt, while Maverick’s team, including a keen duo eager to dive the SS Couvier for the first time, set their sights on the crockery-filled holds of this upright wreck. Meanwhile, Black Cat’s crew investigated an armed trawler.
Conditions were challenging yet invigorating. Despite murky waters en route, visibility improved dramatically upon reaching the shipping lanes. For the Maverick team, the dive plan shifted from the advertised HMS Flirt to the SS Couvier, resting at a depth of 43 metres. Divers equipped themselves accordingly, balancing gas mixes and decompression requirements for the unexpected change.
Descending into the depths, the Maverick team faced the challenge of securing the shot line in a mild current, with the wreck elusively close yet tantalisingly out of reach. Some divers, constrained by decompression limits, chose to ascend early, while others pressed on, unearthing small treasures from the historic wreck. Tales of triumph and tactical problem-solving filled the air as the divers returned to the surface, reflecting on a day that tested both their skills and their equipment.
Festivities Ashore
The dive concluded with a quick dash back to Dover, where participants traded their drysuits for glad rags in preparation for the evening’s festivities. Cullins Yard provided a warm and welcoming venue, with cold beers awaiting the divers as they arrived to celebrate their shared passion for the underwater world.
A highlight of the evening was the presentation of the prestigious Spidge Award Trophy 2024, an accolade recognising exceptional dedication and achievement within the diving community. This year, the honour went to Jamie Powell, with Robin securing second place and Craig rounding out the podium in third. Jamie’s triumph was celebrated with resounding applause, marking a pinnacle moment in a year filled with dives and discoveries.
Looking Ahead
Tom and Chris expressed heartfelt gratitude to everyone who supported Maverick and Renegade throughout the year, extending warm wishes for a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. The event encapsulated the spirit of the diving community—one of resilience, exploration, and shared joy.
For those eager to continue the adventure, dives are planned over the festive period, weather permitting, with further expeditions already on the calendar for early 2025. As the community looks forward to the new year, the Christmas Dive and Party stands as a testament to the bonds formed beneath the waves and the enduring allure of the sea.
