Ahoy there, fellow pirates! ⚓️ Let me tell you about my latest adventure diving into the Shrine of Ancient Tears in Sea of Thieves. As someone who's spent countless hours sailing these treacherous waters since 2018, I can confidently say this southeast shrine near Thieves' Haven (map grid N20) perfectly captures that heart-pounding pirate fantasy. We're talking about a sunken wonder filled with timed puzzles, glowing journals, and treasures like the legendary Trident of Dark Tides! But why does this underwater labyrinth keep drawing us back even in 2025? Well, strap on your diving gear – I'm about to spill the grog on everything from entry tricks to vault secrets.

🌊 Finding Your Way to the Shrine

First things first – spotting the entrance is easier than finding a sober pirate at an outpost! Head southeast of Thieves' Haven and look for those telltale colored light spirals shooting toward the surface like underwater fireworks. Once you see them, drop anchor and dive straight down. Pro tip from my third attempt: don't get distracted by the broken ship wreckage! Swim past it, turn around, and you'll spot a glowing rock on the wall – give it one clean shot with your pistol to reveal the entry point. Before proceeding, raid those nearby barrels for supplies because trust me, you'll need every cannonball and banana for what's coming.

🔍 Hunting the Five Journals

Now, the real treasure hunt begins! Those five glowing journals aren't just lore collectibles – they're your golden ticket to the "Shrine Seeker" commendation and achievement. Are they fiendishly hidden? Not exactly, but they're cleverly placed in spots that'll test your observation skills. Here's what I discovered during my expeditions:

• Journal 1: Near the initial well drop-off, tucked behind some coral

• Journal 2: Beside an air pocket chamber with bioluminescent algae

• Journal 3: On a ledge overlooking the first puzzle room

• Journal 4: Guarded by a school of electric jellyfish (bring a bucket!)

• Journal 5: Activated only after solving the lever/torch puzzle

The last journal triggers the shrine's grand finale – but we'll get to that!

🧩 Mastering the Torch & Lever Puzzles

Here's where things get spicy! After collecting journal four, you'll enter a chamber that'd make an ancient architect proud. Four stone pillars, multiple levers, and torches that need precise activation. I failed this twice before cracking the code:

1. Pull the leftmost lever to ignite the central brazier

2. Light your lantern from the flames

3. Ignite the eastern and western torches within 15 seconds

4. Simultaneously activate the two center levers

Do this correctly and boom – the vault doors rumble open near the pillars! Inside awaits the Horn of Fair Winds (added in 2024) and enough gold to make even Flameheart jealous.

💎 People Also Ask: Your Burning Questions

How long does the shrine take to complete?

Honestly? About 25-40 minutes solo. The timed trials add pressure, but with a crew, you can halve that!

Can I replay it for more rewards?

Absolutely! The weapon cosmetics are one-time, but gold and tridents respawn daily – perfect for funding that new ship customisation.

Is it solo-friendly?

Definitely! I've done it alone three times. Just watch your oxygen and bring plenty of food.

What makes the Trident special?

This baby shoots explosive water blasts – incredible for PvE events like Skeleton Forts!

🏴‍☠️ A Pirate's Final Thought

So, circling back to where we began – why does the Shrine of Ancient Tears remain a crown jewel in 2025? Because it perfectly bottles that Sea of Thieves magic: discovery, risk, and reward! Whether you're chasing journals or hearing the Horn of Fair Winds echo through coral caverns, this shrine proves Rare still crafts world-class pirate adventures. Now, if you'll excuse me... those timed puzzles are calling my name again. Who's brave enough to dive with me? ⚔️