BRAAT II - Cornwall & Devon

The Braat II, a steamship that went down in 1918, lies quietly at 36 metres. We find her largely intact, though time and tide have obviously had their way. She’s an impressive 80 metres long, which means there’s plenty to explore, especially around the triple-expansion engine. Look for the resident conger eels tucked into the darker crevices, and the dense shoals of pouting that often hang around the superstructure. This is a dive for those comfortable with deeper wrecks and the cooler, often greener waters of the UK, offering a real sense of history beneath the waves.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.500010, -1.322900
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
36m

Marine Protected Area: Compton Chine to Steephill Cove

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 BRAAT II

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 BRAAT II

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 diving depth range at the BRAAT II dive site?
The BRAAT II dive site has a typical diving depth of 36 meters. This makes it a fascinating deep dive for those exploring the waters off Cornwall & Devon. Divers should be prepared for depths in this range when planning their visit to this historic wreck.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at BRAAT II?
Divers at BRAAT II can expect to explore the impressive remains of a steam ship vessel, measuring 80.8m x 12.8m, which sank in 1918. As a wreck site, it provides a unique artificial reef structure. While specific marine life details are not provided in the current data, such structures often attract various species; for more information on general marine life, you can visit our wildlife database.
How challenging is diving at BRAAT II, and is it suitable for beginner divers?
Diving at BRAAT II is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive and is considered a dangerous wreck. Due to its classification and depth, it is not suitable for beginner divers. Divers should possess appropriate experience and certifications for challenging wreck dives to ensure safety and enjoyment.
What is the best time of year or season to dive at BRAAT II for optimal conditions?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year or season to dive at BRAAT II for optimal conditions. For general guidance on dive seasons and conditions in the United Kingdom, please refer to our When to Dive section. Local dive operators can also provide up-to-date information on seasonal variations.
Are there any specific certifications required to dive at the BRAAT II site?
While specific certification requirements are not explicitly listed, given that BRAAT II is an intermediate difficulty dive and classified as a dangerous wreck, advanced certifications in wreck diving or deep diving are highly recommended. Divers should ensure they have the necessary training and experience for such challenging sites. Always consult with local dive centers regarding their specific requirements.
What are the typical currents and water conditions like at BRAAT II?
The available data does not provide specific details regarding the typical currents or water conditions at the BRAAT II dive site. Divers planning a trip to this wreck site should consult local dive operators for the most up-to-date information on conditions. Understanding local currents is crucial for a safe and enjoyable dive.