ANTILOPE

Best months: Jul–Sep

Protected Area

Les Ecrehous

Why dive here

With 176+ marine species recorded in the area - including blue sharks, dolphins, dwarf minke whales, humpback whales and ocean sunfish (mola mola) - ANTILOPE offers some of Cornwall & Devon's richest wreck diving. Water ranges 10-18°C, warmest July, August, September.

Best timeJul–Sep

WetsuitA 5mm wetsuit

Marine lifeBlue Sharks, Dolphins, Dwarf Minke Whales, Humpback Whales and Ocean Sunfish (Mola Mola) · 176+ species recorded

Water10-18°C · warmest July, August, September

CharacterWreck dive

StandoutExceptional marine biodiversity

Forget dramatic drop-offs or technicolour reefs, Antilope is a different kind of magic. This isn't a deep dive; in fact, it’s not really a dive at all. This 18th-century sloop, which ran aground in the fog near Bolt Head, is completely exposed at low tide. We love it for its sheer accessibility and the feeling of walking through history. You’re exploring a wreck with your boots on, picking your way across the exposed timbers and frames. Barnacles and mussels cling to every surface, while sea anemones cluster in the shadowed crevices. Look closely and you’ll find small crabs scuttling for cover and blennies peering from cracks in the hull. It's a fantastic spot for snorkelers or even just a curious wanderer at extreme low tide. Our favourite time to visit is on a calm, sunny morning when the light reflects off the wet wood, making the whole structure glow. Just remember to check the tide times meticulously; you don't want to get cut off.

Safety Notes

Wreck site - avoid penetration without wreck diving certification. Watch for sharp metal and entanglement hazards.

Today06:2117:2711h 6m daylightGolden hour 16:44

ANTILOPE Wreck History

Vessel Type

sloop

Cause

grounding

The wreck of the Antilope, a sloop that ran aground in thick fog, offers a unique experience for coastal explorers and snorkelers in the Cornwall and Devon area. With a depth listed as zero meters, this wreck is intertidal, meaning parts of its hull and superstructure are visible above the water, particularly at low tide. This makes it an accessible and fascinating site to investigate without the need for full scuba gear. While the exact history and date of its sinking are not widely documented, its exposed remains serve as a stark reminder of the perils of navigating this rugged coastline, offering a glimpse into maritime history right from the shoreline.