BETTY R
Protected Area
Berry Head to Sharkham Point
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) - BETTY R offers some of Cornwall & Devon's richest wreck diving. Water ranges 10-18°C, warmest July, August, September.
The Betty R is one of those wrecks we often find ourselves recommending, not because it’s a deep, challenging dive, but because it’s just so… enjoyable. Sitting at a comfortable five metres, this former luxury pleasure craft hit a reef in 1971 and settled onto the seabed in two distinct pieces. You’ll find the bow and stern separated by maybe 20 metres, making for an easy swim-through. The shallow depth means fantastic ambient light on sunny days, really bringing out the golds and greens of the kelp that’s taken hold. We love nosing around the twin propeller shafts, often finding spider crabs lurking amongst the machinery. Shoals of bib flit in and out of the hull sections, and the occasional dogfish might be tucked under a plate. It’s an ideal site for new wreck divers looking to build confidence, or for photographers wanting to play with natural light and macro subjects. Plus, the minimal current usually means a relaxed dive, even for an hour.
Typical BETTY R Dive Profile
Illustrative profile based on site depth and type. Actual dive profiles vary - always follow your dive computer and training.
Safety Notes
Wreck site - avoid penetration without wreck diving certification. Watch for sharp metal and entanglement hazards.
BETTY R Wreck History
Year Sunk
1971
Vessel Type
yacht
Cause
grounding
The Betty R was a luxury pleasure craft that met an unfortunate end on May 4, 1971, when it struck a submerged reef off the coast and sank. Lying in just 5 meters of water, this is an extremely accessible wreck for novice divers and even snorkelers, offering a great introduction to wreck exploration. Due to its shallow depth, the site is heavily influenced by tides and weather, and what remains of the vessel has been broken up by decades of wave action.
Despite its 'Dangerous wreck' classification, which warns of potential sharp edges or entanglement, a cautious approach makes for a rewarding dive. The scattered remains have become a thriving habitat for local marine life, with crabs, lobsters, and various fish seeking shelter among the wreckage. It serves as a perfect example of how quickly nature can reclaim a man-made object.
Nearest Dive Centres to BETTY R
Dive shops near BETTY R
Teign Diving Centre
Edge Watersports
Sound Diving Limited
Plymouth Diving Centre
Reviews for BETTY R
Conditions
Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for BETTY R
BETTY R Ocean Conditions
Monthly averages for BETTY R, 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 BETTY R
Prices from Booking.com. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.