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HMS Endymion Wreck

A British warship lost on a reef south of Salt Cay in 1790, dived at shallow depth.

Updated 3 September 2026

WhereSalt Cay
Nearest cityGrand Turk
Best seasonDecember to April
Time to allowHalf a day
Getting thereOn a reef south of Salt Cay; dive boat, conditions permitting
EntryDive charges

HMS Endymion, a British fifth-rate frigate, struck an uncharted reef south of Salt Cay in 1790 and went down, and what remains lies in around ten metres of water: cannon, anchors and ballast scattered across the coral with the hull long gone. The shallow depth makes it accessible to snorkellers as well as divers. The reef that took her now carries her name. The ship was carrying provisions when she struck, and the crew were taken off with almost no loss of life.

What's there

  • The cannon - the guns lying scattered across the reef.
  • The anchors - the ground tackle among the coral.
  • The shallow depth - a wreck within reach of snorkellers.
  • The reef - the coral that took the ship and now carries her name.

When to go

December to April is the calmest season. Conditions frequently cancel the trip. Visibility is generally good when the sea allows.

Good to know

The site is exposed and trips are cancelled often. Nothing of the hull survives; it is cannon and ballast on coral. Operators are few and must be arranged from Salt Cay or Grand Turk.

Nearby

Salt Cay is north, and Grand Turk is northeast.

What to pack for HMS Endymion Wreck

Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.

  • Broken-in walking shoes or boots - Grip and ankle support matter more than looks; never hike in brand-new boots. Find on Amazon
  • Your own mask + snorkel - A well-fitting mask is the single biggest comfort upgrade underwater. Find on Amazon
  • Layers + a waterproof shell - Mountain weather turns fast; a packable rain jacket saves the day. Find on Amazon
  • Rash guard or thin wetsuit - Sun cover on the surface and warmth on longer or deeper dives. Find on Amazon

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Plan your trip

Where to start if HMS Endymion Wreck is going on the list.

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Opening times, ticket prices and seasonal closures change - check the official source before you go: official site.

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