BERAR - Cornwall & Devon

The *Berar* offers a glimpse into Cornwall's maritime past, a decent shore dive for those days you want something accessible. Sunk in 1896, this 57.5m sailing vessel broke up on the rocks, so don't expect a fully intact hull. What you'll find instead is a spread of ribs and plating at just 8m, colonised by local wrasse and opportunistic crabs. It’s a good spot for newer divers, or anyone keen on a relaxed exploration of history without the need for a boat. We'd suggest timing your dive around slack tide for the clearest conditions, as the visibility can shift.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.697650, -3.004217
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
8m

Marine Protected Area: Sidmouth to West Bay

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 BERAR

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 BERAR

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

How deep is the Beras Laut dive site?
The dive site known as BERAR, located in Cornwall & Devon, has a maximum depth of 8 meters. This relatively shallow depth makes it accessible for many divers. It is classified as a wreck dive.
What marine life can divers expect to encounter at Beras Laut?
The provided data for the BERAR dive site does not specify the marine life divers can expect to encounter. However, Cornwall & Devon waters are generally rich in temperate marine species. For more general information on marine life, you can explore our wildlife database.
Is Beras Laut a difficult dive site, or is it suitable for beginner divers?
The BERAR dive site is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive. While not suitable for absolute beginners, divers with some experience will find it manageable. It's recommended that divers have appropriate training and experience for intermediate wreck dives.
When is the best time of year to dive at Beras Laut for optimal conditions?
The available data for the BERAR dive site does not specify the best time of year for optimal diving conditions. Factors like visibility and water temperature can vary significantly throughout the year in United Kingdom waters. For general guidance on seasonal diving, you might consult our When to Dive section.
What scuba diving certifications are required to dive at Beras Laut?
Given that the BERAR dive site is classified as intermediate difficulty, divers should possess a certification level appropriate for such conditions. This typically means an Advanced Open Water Diver certification or equivalent, ensuring you have the necessary skills for wreck diving. Always ensure your certification matches the demands of the dive.
What are the typical currents and water conditions like at Beras Laut?
The provided information for the BERAR dive site does not detail typical currents or specific water conditions. As a wreck site in Cornwall & Devon, conditions can be variable, and divers should always check local reports before diving. It's important to be prepared for potential currents, especially around wreck structures.