B17 Bomber Wreck, Corsica: Diving the WWII "Her Did"

The B-17 Bomber Wreck, or "Her Did," is a dive into history off the coast of Calvi, Corsica. You'll descend onto the recognizable structure of a World War II American bomber, specifically identified as "Her Did." Unlike many wartime wrecks, this B-17 rests upright and largely intact, giving you a clear view of its fuselage, wings, and engines as you approach. It sits between 25 and 30 metres deep, making it one of the more accessible B-17 dives globally.

Your approach to the wreck is a gentle slope over sand, starting from the surface. The aircraft itself is not in a cave or against a steep wall, but settled in open water, which contributes to the generally light current conditions. As you navigate the site, you'll find the bomber's orientation clear, allowing you to trace its length and take in the sheer scale of the aircraft against the sandy backdrop. This clear visibility and relatively contained environment mean you can focus on the details of the wreck without contending with strong currents or complex topography.

Beyond the historical significance of the B-17, the wreck has become an artificial reef, attracting a variety of marine life. You'll often find moray eels (Muraena helena) inhabiting crevices within the structure, their heads peering out from engine housings or the bomb bay. Octopus (Octopus vulgaris) are frequent residents, camouflaged against the metal or in the surrounding sand, requiring a careful eye to spot. The wreck provides shelter and hunting grounds for these species, making it a living monument.

Exploring the exterior, keep an eye out for scorpionfish (Scorpaena scrofa) camouflaged on the wreck's surface or resting on the sand nearby. Lobsters (Palinurus elephas) are also present, often hidden in the more protected sections of the fuselage or under debris. Conger eels (Conger conger) can be seen further inside the wreck, especially in the darker, more secluded parts, presenting a larger, more imposing presence.

While the B-17 is the primary attraction, the surrounding sandy areas and the wreck itself host smaller inhabitants. Nudibranchs, with their vibrant colours and intricate forms, can be found on various surfaces of the plane, adding a delicate touch to the metallic landscape. Groupers (Epinephelus marginatus) patrol the wreck, utilizing its structure for hunting smaller prey, moving slowly and deliberately.

Despite being a historical relic, the dive feels very much alive. The light penetration at 25-30 metres is sufficient to illuminate much of the wreck, and visibility typically ranges from 20 to 30 metres, allowing you to appreciate the full scope of the bomber. The absence of strong current patterns means you can explore at your own pace, taking time to observe the aircraft's details and the marine life that has made it home. This stability is a key factor in the site's appeal.

Unlike many deeper or more exposed wreck dives, the B-17 site maintains a sense of calm. However, it's not a beginner training site. The depth, though moderate for a wreck, still requires an advanced level of certification. This ensures divers have the experience to manage gas consumption and bottom time effectively in a wreck environment, even one as relatively straightforward as "Her Did." The experience focuses on appreciation rather than technical challenge.