ARMAS - Cornwall & Devon

The Armas, a carrier vessel that met its end on the Great Nannel Reef in 1973, now offers a different kind of passage for divers. This wreck sits well-broken up, a sprawling metal landscape at the entrance to Plymouth Sound. You'll navigate through scattered plates and bulkheads, which have become home to a good population of wrasse and pollock. It’s an interesting rummage around, especially when the visibility is decent, giving you a real sense of its former scale. We’d say it’s a solid dive for those who enjoy exploring the bones of a ship.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
49.737335, -2.249833
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
0m

Marine Protected Area: Gouliot Caves and Headland, Sark

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 ARMAS

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 ARMAS

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 ARMAS?
The data for the ARMAS wreck in Cornwall & Devon indicates a depth of 0m. This suggests that the wreck, a carrier vessel measuring 106.4m x 14.9m, is located at or very near the surface. Therefore, the typical maximum depth for recreational diving would be limited to this shallow range, making it more suitable for snorkeling or very shallow exploration.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at ARMAS?
Divers visiting the ARMAS site can expect to explore the remains of a significant carrier vessel. Sunk in 1973, this wreck measures 106.4m x 14.9m and is classified as showing portions of its hull or superstructure. While specific marine life is not detailed in the provided data, wrecks often become artificial reefs, attracting various species over time; you can learn more about common marine life in the region on our wildlife database.
How challenging is diving at ARMAS, and is it suitable for beginner divers?
Diving at the ARMAS wreck is classified as intermediate difficulty. This suggests that while it may not be suitable for absolute beginner divers, those with some experience and appropriate training should find it manageable. Divers should possess the skills and confidence typically associated with intermediate-level dives to safely explore this carrier vessel wreck off Cornwall & Devon.
What is the best time of year or season to dive at ARMAS for optimal conditions?
The provided data for the ARMAS dive site does not specify the best time of year or season for optimal diving conditions. Factors such as currents, visibility, and water temperature can vary significantly throughout the year in Cornwall & Devon. For general guidance on seasonal diving considerations, please refer to our When to Dive resource.
Are there any specific diving certifications required or highly recommended to dive at ARMAS?
While the data does not explicitly list specific certifications for the ARMAS wreck, its intermediate difficulty classification implies that divers should have experience beyond basic open water certification. It is highly recommended to possess certifications and experience suitable for intermediate wreck diving, ensuring you are prepared for the conditions and complexities of exploring a large vessel like this 106.4m carrier wreck. Always ensure your training aligns with the demands of the dive site.
What are the typical current and visibility conditions like at the ARMAS dive site?
The available data for the ARMAS dive site does not provide specific details regarding typical current or visibility conditions. These factors can significantly impact a dive, especially on a wreck site. Divers planning to visit this Cornwall & Devon location should consult local dive operators for up-to-date information on prevailing conditions before their dive.