AVALANCHE - Cornwall & Devon

The Avalanche, oh, she’s a proper dive. Lying deep at 55 metres off the Lizard, this isn't one for a quick splash. We're talking serious planning, proper gas, and a good buddy team. But put in the work, and you're rewarded with a majestic iron sailing ship, remarkably intact for her 1877 sinking. Dropping down, the light fades quickly, and the sheer scale of her suddenly appears from the gloom. The masts lie collapsed across the deck, creating fascinating swim-throughs if you're careful and properly trained for overhead environments. We love tracing the deck, noting the massive anchor chains still in place. Keep an eye out for the resident conger eels, some of them are huge, lurking in the darker recesses of the holds. The stern, in particular, is captivating; you can really imagine her sailing days. This is a dive for experienced wreck enthusiasts who appreciate the history and the silent, cold embrace of the deep. Visibility can be hit or miss, typical for the Channel, but on a good day, it’s truly spectacular, with schools of pouting swarming the structure. Expect currents; slack water is your friend here.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.267273, -2.501300
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
55m

Wreck History - AVALANCHE

Year Sunk
1877
Vessel Type
passenger ship
Cause
collision

The Avalanche was a 65-metre iron clipper ship built in 1874 for the renowned Shaw, Savill & Co. line, tasked with carrying emigrants on the arduous journey from London to New Zealand. On September 11, 1877, shortly after departing London, the ship was navigating the English Channel off Portland Bill in hazy conditions. In the darkness, she tragically collided with a Canadian vessel, the SV Forest. The Avalanche was struck with such force that she sank in under five minutes, a disaster so swift that only three of her crew managed to survive. In total, 106 passengers and crew lost their lives in the frigid water, marking one of the worst maritime disasters of the era in the Channel.

Today, the wreck of the Avalanche lies at 55 metres, presenting a serious deep dive for experienced, mixed-gas technical divers. The site is subject to the powerful tides that sweep around Portland Bill, requiring a slack-water dive and excellent conditions. The wreck itself is heavily broken, but its iron structure has endured. Divers can explore the scattered remains, identifying features of the once-proud clipper ship that now lie on the seabed, encrusted with marine life. It is a deeply atmospheric and poignant dive, a direct connection to a Victorian-era tragedy and a solemn tribute to the many lives lost.

Marine Protected Area: South of Portland

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 AVALANCHE

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 AVALANCHE

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 maximum depth and typical depth range for diving the Avalanche dive site?
The Avalanche dive site has a maximum depth of 55m. As a wreck dive, divers can expect to explore various parts of this historic sailing vessel at depths up to its maximum. This deep dive requires appropriate training and experience.
What kind of marine life and historical artifacts can divers expect to see at the Avalanche dive site?
Divers exploring the Avalanche wreck can expect to encounter the remains of a historic sailing vessel, built in 1874 and sunk on September 11, 1877, following a collision. This 65.5m x 11m wreck serves as a fascinating historical artifact, offering insights into maritime history. While specific marine life is not detailed, wrecks commonly attract various species, making them vibrant artificial reefs.
How challenging is the Avalanche dive site, and what are the main difficulties or hazards for divers?
The Avalanche dive site is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive. Its maximum depth of 55m requires appropriate training and experience for safe exploration. While it is classified as a non-dangerous wreck, divers should always be mindful of deep diving protocols and wreck diving best practices.
When is the best time of year to dive the Avalanche site for optimal conditions and visibility?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year for optimal conditions and visibility at the Avalanche dive site. For general guidance on seasonal diving conditions in the Cornwall & Devon sub-region, please refer to our When to Dive section. Local dive operators can provide the most current information.
What scuba diving certifications are typically required or recommended to dive at the Avalanche site?
Given the Avalanche dive site's maximum depth of 55m and its intermediate difficulty rating, divers will typically need advanced or deep diving certifications. Technical diving certifications may also be recommended to safely and comfortably explore this deep wreck. Always ensure you have the appropriate training and experience for such depths.
What are the usual current conditions and expected visibility at the Avalanche dive site?
The provided data does not include specific information regarding the usual current conditions or expected visibility at the Avalanche dive site. Divers planning to visit this historic wreck should consult local dive operators for the most up-to-date conditions and forecasts. Always prioritize safety by understanding the environment before your dive.