70 years of history

About us

Our story

Diving since 1954

Founded in 1954 as Branch No. 9 of the British Sub‑Aqua Club, Southsea Sub‑Aqua Club has been diving the Solent and beyond for over 70 years.

From inventing “Octopush” (known globally as underwater hockey) to locating the wreck of the Mary Rose, our club has always been at the forefront of UK diving.

Today, we are a friendly and inclusive club, offering beginner training and more while continuing our legacy of innovative, nationally important project diving.

Uwh first players
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Pioneers in British diving

  • Three-time winners of the prestigious Heinke Trophy for the BSAC’s most improved club
  • Founded by Alan Blake and inventors of Octopush
  • First BSAC club to appoint a female Diving Officer, Barbara Anderson
  • Members Alex McKee and John Towse launched Project Solent Ships, leading to the discovery of Henry VIII’s Mary Rose
  • Represented Great Britain in international spearfishing and produced multiple national champions
  • Have undertaken multiple complex diving projects of national importance

Discover new experiences

Join our club

From local dives to incredible projects and Southsea Sub-Aqua Club offers adventure, learning, and community. Get in touch today to join us.

Contact us

Our story

The club today

Today, Southsea Sub-Aqua Club has over 100 members from those undertaking their training to First Class Divers and BSAC National Instructors.

We have extensive facilities for our members including air, nitrox and trimix blending facilities, a 6.7m RHIB and regular social nights with talks, planning and training happening.

We continue our pioneering legacy through our extensive project diving, offering members hands-on experience in exploration, training, and adventure.

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