SS Thistlegorm: Moorings Enhanced
calendar_monthApril 17, 2008
The HEPCA mooring team successfully completed work last week (6th April 2008) on an enhancement of the new mooring system at the wreck of the SS Thistlegorm. Over the last three months since phase one of the conservation work and the installation of the 32 mooring lines at the site of the wreck, at least half of the lines have been damaged and some enhancements recommended for ease and safety. This follows a consultative meeting that was held in February in Sharm El Sheikh between HEPCA and Managers of several of the larger dive centres, and representatives of the CDWS and SSDM. Divers from the HEPCA mooring team spent several days working on the mooring system and have lengthened the lines to minimum 18m depth. All the lines are now fitted with steel eyelets to make tying on easier, and each line has a buoy to aid easier identification. In addition, boats are no longer permitted to use the mooring system unless they throw an anchor from the stern. This extra stability should help to ensure that the lines do not become shredded by rubbing against the structure of the wreck in wind and strong currents. It is hoped that these new enhancements to the system will eliminate any issues with diving operators using the mooring system and will ensure that all who visit the SS Thistlegorm comply with its use. This additional work was undertaken with minimum disruption and without the need for closure of the wreck. HEPCA thank everyone for your understanding, cooperation and support.
