BEYECHARELLE - Cornwall & Devon

Okay, so "Beyecharelle" is a bit of a local legend, a yacht that went down off the coast in 1980. We love how accessible it is, sitting practically on the surface. You're looking at a maximum depth of just one metre, which means it’s more of a snorkel or free-dive than a typical scuba excursion, but don't let that fool you into thinking it's boring. Even in shallow water, a wreck has a story. What makes Beyecharelle special is the light. Sunlight streams through the water, illuminating the yacht's skeleton. You can trace the outline of the hull, now draped in green and brown algae, a stark contrast to the shifting sand around it. This is a brilliant spot for macro enthusiasts or underwater photographers keen on capturing the interplay of natural light and shadow on a slowly disintegrating vessel. We’d suggest heading out on a calm day, perhaps an hour or two either side of high tide, when the water clarity tends to be at its best. Keep an eye out for small crabs scuttling amongst the bits of twisted metal and tiny blennies peering from crevices. It’s a gentle introduction to wreck exploration, perfect for families or anyone wanting to see history without the need for heavy gear.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
51.589897, -3.948412
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
1m

Wreck History - BEYECHARELLE

Year Sunk
1980
Vessel Type
yacht
Cause
storm

Resting in just a single meter of water, the wreck of the yacht Beyecharelle is a testament to the power of the sea. The vessel capsized and sank on July 11, 1980, likely caught in treacherous conditions too close to shore. Its extreme shallow depth means it is more of an attraction for snorkelers or kayakers at high tide, or can even be explored on foot during very low tides.

The constant action of the surf zone has heavily battered the wreck, and its remains are likely scattered and well-weathered. Its 'Dangerous wreck' classification is an important warning, as the turbulent water and broken structure can pose significant hazards. For the prepared explorer, the Beyecharelle offers a unique and dramatic look at a vessel's final resting place at the very boundary of land and sea.

Marine Protected Area: Blackpill, Swansea

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 BEYECHARELLE

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 BEYECHARELLE

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