BETTANN (BOW SECTION)
Protected Area
Utopia
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) - BETTANN (BOW SECTION) offers some of Cornwall & Devon's richest wreck diving. Water ranges 10-18°C, warmest July, August, September.
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.
Typical BETTANN (BOW SECTION) 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 41m 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.
BETTANN (BOW SECTION) Wreck History
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.
Nearest Dive Centres to BETTANN (BOW SECTION)
Dive shops near BETTANN (BOW SECTION)
Sussex Diving & Leisure
Mulberry Marine Experiences CIC
In2 Diving
Abyss Scuba School
Andark Diving
Reviews for BETTANN (BOW SECTION)
Conditions
Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for BETTANN (BOW SECTION)
BETTANN (BOW SECTION) Ocean Conditions
Monthly averages for BETTANN (BOW SECTION), 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 BETTANN (BOW SECTION)
Prices from Booking.com. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.