BORU OF NEYLAND

Best months: Jul–Sep

Protected Area

Lundy

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) - BORU OF NEYLAND offers some of Cornwall & Devon's richest wreck diving. Water ranges 10-18°C, warmest July, August, September.

Best timeJul–Sep

WetsuitA 5mm wetsuit

Marine lifeBlue Sharks, Dolphins, Dwarf Minke Whales, Humpback Whales and Ocean Sunfish (Mola Mola) · 176+ species recorded

Water10-18°C · warmest July, August, September

CharacterWreck dive

StandoutExceptional marine biodiversity

The Boru of Neyland isn't your grand, cathedral-like wreck, but it’s one of our favourite smaller, more intimate dives around Neyland. This 13.4-meter yacht settled onto the seabed back in 1995 after running aground, and while it's not deep – the depth is essentially zero, meaning parts can be exposed at low tide – it's full of character. We often find ourselves just floating above, watching the light play through the remains of the superstructure. The wreck is now a proper home for some interesting critters. You’ll spot crabs scuttling in and out of the nooks and crannies, and quite a few wrasse species dart between the barnacle-encrusted metalwork. It’s a fantastic site for macro photography, especially on a sunny day when the visibility really opens up. The Boru is best explored by careful divers, those who appreciate the subtle beauty of a small wreck and the life that takes hold. It's a shallow, sheltered spot, so it’s great for getting back in the water or just enjoying a relaxed dive without battling currents. Look for it around high slack water for the clearest views of the whole boat.

Safety Notes

Wreck site - avoid penetration without wreck diving certification. Watch for sharp metal and entanglement hazards.

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BORU OF NEYLAND Wreck History

Year Sunk

1995

Vessel Type

yacht

Cause

grounding

Not all wrecks require a boat and scuba gear to explore. The Boru of Neyland, a 13.4-meter yacht, offers a different kind of wreck experience on the coast of Cornwall & Devon. In September 1995, the yacht ran aground, and while the crew made it safely to shore, their vessel did not. It came to rest at a depth of 0 meters, meaning its hull and superstructure are exposed, particularly during low tide.

This intertidal wreck is an excellent destination for beachcombers, kayakers, and snorkelers. At low tide, you can walk right up to the remains and examine the structure of the yacht as it lies on the shore, being slowly claimed by the coastal environment. It's a tangible piece of maritime history that can be seen and touched, offering a poignant reminder of the fine line between a safe passage and disaster along this rugged coastline.