An international diving mission has been conducted to study the wreck of Nelson's favourite ship.

Launched on April 10, 1781, HMS Agamemnon was Admiral Nelson's favourite ship and served the Royal Navy for nearly 30 years after being built at Buckler's Hard.

The vessel was affectionately known as ‘Eggs and Bacon’ by her crew.

In March 2024, an international diving mission was conducted off the coast of Uruguay to study the wreck of the historic ship.

The shipwreck was rediscovered in 1993, 800 metres from the shore at a depth of 10 meters.

Despite challenging visibility conditions, divers conducted a thorough photogrammetry survey, uncovering that much of the starboard side remains intact, with copper bolt fastenings still evident among the timber.

Mary Montagu-Scott, director of Buckler’s Hard, who was part of the mission, said: "I have always dreamt of seeing this wreck, as HMS Agamemnon is the only surviving wreck of a ship built at Buckler’s Hard in the world.

"There are hopes of a return visit to the wreck later this year for a second survey, this time covering a wider area with the hope of finding the port side, whilst monitoring the ongoing deterioration of the timbers."

The ‘HMS Agamemnon – Navigating the Legend exhibition’ was created to tell the story of how nations are working together to preserve the wreck of Admiral Nelson’s favourite ship, which is now at risk of being exposed to erosion, treasure hunters and ship worm decay.

Mary added: "I have created this exhibition at Buckler’s Hard to promote and tell the story of how we will work jointly across nations to preserve the remains for future generations.

"The story is one that can bring our nations together, share the history, science and knowledge, and develop and celebrate our friendship through maritime archaeology."

The HMS Agamemnon – Navigating the Legend exhibition can be seen for free in the Shipwrights Workshop, along with free access to the grounds of Buckler’s Hard village, the Shipwright’s Cottage and charming St Mary’s Chapel, with its smugglers’ cellar beside the altar.

Visitors can also find a discount code within the exhibition for 20 per cent off admission to the Buckler's Hard Museum.