BETTANN (BOW SECTION) - Cornwall & Devon

The Bettann's bow section is a moody, often challenging dive, but one we always enjoy. Dropping onto it at 41 metres, the first thing that hits you is the sheer sense of scale, even for just a bow. The visibility here can be a real lottery; we’ve had days where you can make out the entire structure from 10 metres above, and others where it’s a slow reveal from the gloom. What makes it special is the way the wreck has settled, almost upright, creating these deep, shadowed internal spaces. Penetrating just a few metres into the holds, you'll find conger eels the size of your thigh, tucked into every nook. Our favourite part is exploring the anchor chains and the foredeck, which is absolutely covered in jewel anemones, a vibrant contrast to the rusting steel. It's a dive that demands experience and good conditions, but for those who make the effort, it offers a real sense of adventure and some fantastic photographic opportunities.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.602833, -0.956683
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
41m

Wreck History - BETTANN (BOW SECTION)

Year Sunk
1967
Vessel Type
cargo ship
Cause
foundered

The story of the motor vessel Bettann is a tale of two dives. In January 1967, the ship began taking on water and was forced to anchor in St Helen's Roads. Despite the crew's efforts, the sea won, and the Bettann slipped beneath the waves on January 19th. The vessel came to rest in a position that posed a hazard to navigation, prompting a salvage operation.

During the salvage attempt, the decision was made to cut the vessel in two. This bow section was intended to be raised and towed away, but the operation did not go as planned, and it now rests on the seabed. For divers, this creates a fascinating and challenging dive. Lying at a depth of 41 metres, the bow of the Bettann is a dive reserved for experienced, qualified divers. The structure offers a compelling exploration of a vessel torn apart not by war, but by the forces of the sea and the hands of man.

Marine Protected Area: Utopia

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 BETTANN (BOW SECTION)

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 BETTANN (BOW SECTION)

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 depth range for diving the BETTANN (BOW SECTION)?
The BETTANN (BOW SECTION) is a wreck dive with a typical depth of 41 meters. This makes it a deeper dive, suitable for divers comfortable with advanced open water depths and wreck exploration.
What kind of marine life and wreck features can divers expect to see at the BETTANN (BOW SECTION) dive site?
The BETTANN (BOW SECTION) is a fascinating motor vessel wreck, measuring 46.3m x 8.5m, that sank on January 19, 1967. Divers can explore its structure, which was cut into two sections during salvage operations before being dumped in deep water. While specific marine life isn't detailed, wrecks typically attract a variety of local species, making it a potential spot for wildlife observation.
How difficult is the BETTANN (BOW SECTION) dive, and is it suitable for beginner or advanced divers?
The BETTANN (BOW SECTION) is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive. With a depth of 41 meters, it is best suited for experienced divers who are comfortable with deeper dives and wreck exploration, rather than beginners. Divers should possess appropriate certifications and experience for such conditions.
What is the best time of year or day to dive the BETTANN (BOW SECTION) for optimal visibility and conditions?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year or day to dive the BETTANN (BOW SECTION) for optimal visibility and conditions. For up-to-date information on local conditions, it's always recommended to consult with local dive operators in Cornwall & Devon. You can also check general when to dive resources.
Are there any specific diving certifications required to explore the BETTANN (BOW SECTION)?
Given its intermediate difficulty and depth of 41 meters, divers exploring the BETTANN (BOW SECTION) should possess certifications suitable for deep and wreck diving. This typically includes Advanced Open Water Diver and potentially a Deep Diver specialty certification. Always ensure your training and experience match the dive conditions.
What are the usual current conditions and visibility like at the BETTANN (BOW SECTION) dive site?
The provided data does not include specific details regarding the usual current conditions or visibility at the BETTANN (BOW SECTION) dive site. For the most accurate and current information on these factors, it is advisable to contact local dive centers in Cornwall & Devon before planning your dive.