ATHEN
Protected Area
South of Portland
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) - ATHEN offers some of Cornwall & Devon's richest wreck diving. Water ranges 10-18°C, warmest July, August, September.
Diving the Athen off the Cornish coast means a proper deep wreck exploration. This old steamship, sunk in 1906, sits upright at 53 metres, its structure largely intact despite the years. You'll descend onto the deck, often finding dogfish tucked into crevices and conger eels peering from inside the twin boilers. The triple expansion engine is a highlight, impressive in its scale, and the stern section holds more secrets for those with good bottom time and trim. It's a dive for experienced deep divers, certainly not for the faint of heart or those new to UK wreck diving, but it offers a rewarding glimpse into maritime history.
Typical ATHEN Dive Profile
Illustrative profile based on site depth and type. Actual dive profiles vary - always follow your dive computer and training.
Safety Notes
Maximum depth 53m exceeds recreational limits (40m). Technical diving certification and equipment required.
Wreck site - avoid penetration without wreck diving certification. Watch for sharp metal and entanglement hazards.
Always perform a 3-minute safety stop at 5m before surfacing.
Nearest Dive Centres to ATHEN
Dive shops near ATHEN
View all dive centres in Cornwall & DevonReviews for ATHEN
Conditions
Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for ATHEN
ATHEN Ocean Conditions
Monthly averages for ATHEN, sourced from Open-Meteo marine data - nearest station: Open-Meteo marine grid (50.44, -2.73) (3km away)
October Averages
Sea Temperature
17°C
62°F · Range: 15.1–17.5°C
Air Temperature
13°C
56°F
Wind Speed
8.14 m/s
15.8 knots
Atmospheric Pressure
1011 hPa
Based on 4 years of monitoring data · Data sources: Open-Meteo marine data
Plan & book
Ways to dive Cornwall & Devon, from day trips to liveaboards.
Day trips & courses
via GetYourGuideGuided dives, courses and snorkel trips with instant booking.
Find dive trips in Cornwall & DevonPlaces to stay
via Booking.comHotels and dive resorts near Cornwall & Devon.
Search stays in Cornwall & DevonDive insurance
Most travel insurance excludes or limits scuba. Check what you need before you go.
Dive insurance explainedPartner links: we may earn a commission if you book, at no extra cost to you. How we make money
Where to Stay near ATHEN
Prices from Booking.com. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.