BOBIE - Cornwall & Devon

Diving the Bobie is a proper journey back in time, even if it’s a shallow one. This old steamship, sunk back in '42, now lies in just four metres of water, making it a fantastic spot for a long, relaxed dive or even some extended snorkelling on a calm day. We’ve found her to be quite broken up, but you can still make out the distinctive lines of the hull and the impressive boiler, which really dominates the site. It’s less about penetration here and more about observing how the structure has become a home; look closely and you’ll often spot crabs scuttling in the crevices and inquisitive wrasse darting between the metal plates. It’s a good choice for newer divers keen to experience a wreck without the challenges of depth or strong currents, particularly on a rising tide when visibility tends to be at its best.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
51.591667, -3.933333
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
4m

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 BOBIE

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 BOBIE

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 maximum depth for diving at Booby Island?
The maximum depth for diving at the BOBIE wreck site is 4 meters. This shallow depth makes it accessible for divers.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at Booby Island?
Divers visiting the BOBIE dive site can expect to explore a steam ship vessel, which was built in 1883 and sunk on January 30, 1942. This 62.5m x 9.6m wreck features a boiler and a 2-cylinder compound engine, offering interesting structural elements to discover. While specific marine life isn't detailed, wrecks often attract various species, making it a potential habitat for local aquatic life.
How difficult is the Booby Island dive site, and is it suitable for beginner divers?
The BOBIE dive site is classified as intermediate difficulty. While its shallow depth of 4 meters might seem beginner-friendly, the "Dangerous wreck" classification suggests it may not be suitable for absolute beginner divers without appropriate supervision or experience. Divers should have adequate training and experience for wreck diving.
What are the best months or times of year to dive at Booby Island for optimal conditions?
The provided data does not specify the best months or times of year for diving at the BOBIE dive site for optimal conditions. For general guidance on seasonal diving in the region, please refer to our When to Dive section.
What scuba diving certifications are recommended or required to dive at Booby Island?
Given the BOBIE dive site's intermediate difficulty and its classification as a "Dangerous wreck," a minimum of an Advanced Open Water certification is generally recommended. Specialized wreck diving certifications would also be highly beneficial to safely navigate and explore the features of this steam ship vessel.
What are the typical current and water conditions at the Booby Island dive site?
The provided data does not include specific information regarding the typical current and water conditions at the BOBIE dive site. Divers should consult local dive operators or recent dive reports for up-to-date conditions before planning their dive.