ALERT - Cornwall & Devon

Diving the Alert, a 38-meter steamship that sank off the coast of Cornwall in 1916, feels like stepping back in time. At 45 meters, it’s a site best suited for experienced divers comfortable with deeper wrecks and cooler water. We found plenty of character here, from the upright boiler standing proud to the bows and stern, both still distinct. Expect to see plenty of local marine residents: conger eels peeking from the shadows, big lobsters tucked into crevices, and schools of pollack often circling above the superstructure. It’s a proper piece of history, nicely settled into the seabed.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.583935, -0.534839
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
45m

Marine Protected Area: Offshore Overfalls

Best Time to Dive in Cornwall & Devon

The warmest water temperatures in Cornwall & Devon occur in January, averaging 9.6°C. The coolest conditions are in December at 9.6°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 9.6°C (air: 7.3°C)
  • February: 9.6°C (air: 8.4°C)
  • March: 9.6°C (air: 8.6°C)
  • April: 9.6°C (air: 10.1°C)
  • May: 9.6°C (air: 12.6°C)
  • June: 9.6°C (air: 15.2°C)
  • July: 9.6°C (air: 16.6°C)
  • August: 9.6°C (air: 17.1°C)
  • September: 9.6°C (air: 15.9°C)
  • October: 9.6°C (air: 13.5°C)
  • November: 9.6°C (air: 10.7°C)
  • December: 9.6°C (air: 8.7°C)

Nearby Dive Sites in Cornwall & Devon

Nearest Dive Centres to ALERT

Marine Life in Cornwall & Devon

Home to 192 recorded species including 93 reef fish, 18 sharks & rays, 13 whales & dolphins, 11 crabs & lobsters, 11 other, 10 seagrass & algae.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for ALERT

Based on average water temperature of 9.6°C.

  • Drysuit - water at 10°C demands a drysuit with thermal undergarments
  • Hood & Gloves (7mm+) - critical to prevent heat loss
  • Mask - essential for every dive
  • Fins
  • BCD - buoyancy compensator
  • Regulator - your most safety-critical piece of gear
  • Dive Computer - tracks depth, time, and NDL
  • Surface Marker Buoy (SMB) - essential for boat pickups
  • Dive Torch - useful for crevices and colour at depth
  • Underwater Camera - capture your diving memories

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical maximum depth for recreational diving at the ALERT dive site?
The ALERT dive site, a fascinating steam ship wreck, has a typical maximum depth of 45 meters. This depth makes it an exciting dive for those comfortable with deeper recreational limits.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to encounter at ALERT?
Divers exploring the ALERT will primarily encounter the impressive remains of a 38.1m x 7m steam ship vessel, sunk in 1916. This historic wreck, built in 1897, provides a unique underwater feature to explore. While specific marine life isn't detailed, wrecks typically become artificial reefs, attracting various species; you can learn more about common marine life in our wildlife database.
How would you rate the difficulty of diving at ALERT for different experience levels?
The ALERT dive site is rated as intermediate difficulty. This suggests it is suitable for certified divers who have some experience beyond basic open water, particularly with deeper dives or wreck diving. Divers should be comfortable with a maximum depth of 45 meters.
What is considered the best time of year to dive at ALERT for optimal conditions?
The provided data for the ALERT dive site does not specify the best time of year for optimal diving conditions. For general guidance on diving in Cornwall & Devon, it's advisable to consult local dive operators or our When to Dive section for regional insights.
Are there any specific scuba diving certifications required to dive at the ALERT site?
Given the ALERT dive site's intermediate difficulty and maximum depth of 45 meters, divers would typically need at least an Advanced Open Water certification or equivalent. Specialized training in deep diving or wreck diving is also highly recommended for a safe and enjoyable experience.
What are the usual currents and visibility conditions divers should expect at the ALERT dive site?
The provided data for the ALERT dive site does not detail specific information regarding usual currents or visibility conditions. As these can vary significantly, it's always best to check current local conditions and forecasts before planning your dive.