ALMOND BRANCH (POSSIBLY) - Cornwall & Devon

The Almond Branch is a deep dive, a proper expedition down into the cold, dark English Channel. This steamship, torpedoed in 1917, now rests upright at 54 metres, a colossal steel skeleton on the seabed. We love the sheer scale of it, and the way the light, even on a sunny day, barely penetrates to this depth, giving the whole scene a ghostly, reverent feel. You’re looking at a huge wreck here, over 100 metres long, which means you’ll want multiple dives to properly appreciate it. The bow section is particularly impressive, rising from the sand, often draped in fishing nets like tattered shrouds. Visibility can be a challenge in this part of the world, but when it’s good, say 10-15 metres, the sheer structure of the Almond Branch is breathtaking. Keep an eye out for conger eels in the deeper holds and massive pollack that patrol the upper decks. Our favourite part has to be the stern, where the propeller still sits, an imposing testament to the ship’s original purpose. This is a dive for experienced wreck enthusiasts, certainly, those comfortable with deco obligations and the inherent chill of deep UK water. It’s an adventure, a genuine journey into history.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.207783, -4.748783
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
54m

Wreck History - ALMOND BRANCH (POSSIBLY)

Year Sunk
1917
Vessel Type
cargo ship
Cause
torpedo

The Almond Branch was a British steamship built in 1896, serving for over two decades before becoming a casualty of the Great War. In late November 1917, while on a voyage from Port Talbot in Wales to South America, she was stalked by the German submarine UB-57. On November 27th, the U-boat's torpedo found its mark, and the Almond Branch was sent to the bottom of the English Channel, another victim of Germany's unrestricted submarine warfare campaign.

Today, the wreck of the Almond Branch rests at a depth of 54 meters, placing it firmly in the realm of technical diving. This is a challenging but rewarding dive for experienced and suitably qualified divers. The depth has helped preserve the wreck from the worst of the currents and storm surges, but its steel structure is slowly surrendering to the sea. Divers can explore a vessel steeped in WWI history, a silent testament to the conflict that raged in the waters off the British coast.

Marine Protected Area: Cuckoo Rock to Turbot Point

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 ALMOND BRANCH (POSSIBLY)

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 ALMOND BRANCH (POSSIBLY)

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 depth range for diving at Almond Branch?
The Almond Branch dive site is located at a depth of 54 meters. This deep wreck dive requires appropriate training and experience for safe exploration. You can find more details about this site at Almond Branch.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at Almond Branch?
Divers exploring Almond Branch will encounter the impressive remains of a steam ship vessel, measuring 103.6m x 13.8m, which was sunk in 1917. As a deep wreck, it provides a unique artificial reef structure. While specific marine life details are not provided, wrecks often attract a variety of local species.
How challenging is the Almond Branch dive site for different skill levels of divers?
The Almond Branch dive site is classified as having an intermediate difficulty level. Given its depth of 54 meters and classification as a wreck dive, it is best suited for experienced divers with advanced certifications. Divers should ensure they have the necessary skills and equipment for deep wreck diving.
What is the best time of year or day to dive at Almond Branch for optimal conditions?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year or day for optimal diving conditions at Almond Branch. For general guidance on planning your dives, you might find helpful information on when to dive. Always check local conditions before planning your trip to Cornwall & Devon.
Are there any specific diving certifications required to explore Almond Branch?
Given the depth of 54 meters and its classification as an intermediate wreck dive, specific advanced diving certifications are highly recommended, such as deep diver and wreck diver specialties. These certifications ensure divers have the necessary training and experience to safely explore such challenging sites. Always dive within your certification limits.
What are the usual currents and visibility conditions like at the Almond Branch dive site?
The provided information does not detail the usual currents or visibility conditions at the Almond Branch dive site. Conditions can vary greatly depending on weather and tides in the United Kingdom. It is always advisable to consult local dive operators for up-to-date information on site conditions before planning your dive.