BETTANN (STERN SECTION) - Cornwall & Devon

The Bettann’s stern section, resting at a gentle 13 metres, is one of our go-to wreck dives when we’re in Cornwall. It’s a proper piece of history, scuttled back in ‘67 after being chopped in half during salvage. We love how the bow lies elsewhere, making this a distinct, explorable chunk. You can really get a feel for the ship’s guts here. Drop down and you're met with substantial plates and beams, now home to clouds of jewel anemones, all oranges and purples that glow in your torch beam. Conger eels, some surprisingly large, peer from nooks in the collapsed superstructure, their heads thick as your arm. If you take your time and really look, you'll spot scorpion fish camouflaged against the rust, perfectly still. This site is brilliant for wreck fanatics who appreciate a bit of backstory, and for photographers keen on colourful macro life against a dramatic, decaying backdrop. It’s not a deep dive, making bottom time plentiful for a good, thorough explore.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.671950, -1.017217
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
13m

Wreck History - BETTANN (STERN SECTION)

Year Sunk
1967
Vessel Type
cargo ship
Cause
foundered

The motor vessel Bettann met her end on January 19th, 1967, after taking on water and sinking while at anchor in St Helen's Roads. The wreck was deemed a navigational hazard, and a salvage operation was launched to remove it. To facilitate this, the ship was cut into two distinct sections, creating two separate wreck sites that divers can explore today.

While the bow section sank into deeper water, the stern of the Bettann now rests in a much more accessible depth of just 13 metres. This makes it an ideal dive for novice wreck divers or those looking for a longer, more relaxed exploration. Divers can explore the aft superstructure and imagine the final moments of this vessel before she was split in two. The shallow depth allows for excellent light penetration on a clear day, illuminating the marine life that now calls the Bettann's stern home.

Marine Protected Area: Whitecliff Bay and Bembridge Ledges

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 (STERN 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 (STERN 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 at BETTANN (STERN SECTION)?
The BETTANN (STERN SECTION) dive site offers a typical depth of 13 meters. This makes it accessible for divers looking for a relatively shallow wreck experience. It's a great depth for extended bottom times while exploring the site.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at BETTANN (STERN SECTION)?
Divers at BETTANN (STERN SECTION) can explore the remains of a motor vessel, a significant wreck dive measuring 46.3m x 8.5m. While specific marine life details are not provided, wrecks often become artificial reefs, attracting various local species. You can learn more about general marine life in the region by visiting our wildlife database.
What is the difficulty level of the BETTANN (STERN SECTION) dive site, and is it suitable for beginners?
The BETTANN (STERN SECTION) dive site is classified as having an intermediate difficulty level. Therefore, it is generally not recommended for absolute beginners. Divers should possess appropriate experience and certifications for wreck diving to safely explore this site.
What is the best time of year or season to dive BETTANN (STERN SECTION) for optimal visibility and conditions?
Specific information regarding the best time of year for optimal visibility and conditions at BETTANN (STERN SECTION) is not available in our current data. We recommend checking local dive operators or our When to Dive section for general guidance on diving in Cornwall & Devon.
Are there any specific scuba diving certifications required to dive BETTANN (STERN SECTION)?
Given that BETTANN (STERN SECTION) is an intermediate difficulty dive and classified as a "Dangerous wreck," specific certifications beyond Open Water are highly recommended. Divers should ideally hold advanced certifications, such as a Wreck Diver specialty, to safely navigate and explore this site. Always dive within your training and experience limits.
What are the prevailing currents and general water conditions like at BETTANN (STERN SECTION)?
Our current data does not provide specific details on the prevailing currents or general water conditions at the BETTANN (STERN SECTION) dive site. For up-to-date information on local conditions, it is always best to consult with local dive centers or guides in Cornwall & Devon before planning your dive.