BREMENRY - Cornwall & Devon

The *Bremenry* is one of our favourite shallow wrecks in the UK. This old steamship, lost off Brinchetais in 1891, lies in just 5 metres of water, making it a fantastic dive for pretty much everyone, from newer divers to seasoned wreck hounds looking for a relaxed potter. The ship broke up over time, but the scattered plates and ribs create a beautiful, low-profile artificial reef. We love spending time here just poking around the different sections. You'll see the distinct shapes of boilers and engine parts, now completely encrusted with plumose anemones and dead man’s fingers. Conger eels often peek out from under the larger plates, and we’ve spotted plenty of inquisitive wrasse darting between the rusty metalwork. The way the light filters through the shallow water, illuminating the vibrant colours of the encrusting life, is genuinely lovely. It’s a gentle, accessible dive that rewards slow exploration and a keen eye for macro life amongst the history. Just keep an eye on the tides; a slack water dive makes for the best experience.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
49.722890, -2.154833
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
5m

Wreck History - BREMENRY

Year Sunk
1891
Vessel Type
cargo ship
Cause
grounding

The SS Bremenry is a relic from the golden age of steam, a Victorian-era vessel that met its fate on August 12, 1891. While details of its cargo and crew are sparse, records indicate the steamship was lost off Brinchetais in the Channel Islands, a notoriously treacherous area of water known for its powerful tides and hidden reefs. The circumstances suggest the ship ran aground, succumbing to the very coastline it was trying to navigate. For over a century, its remains have been slowly surrendering to the relentless power of the sea.

Lying in just 5 meters of water, the Bremenry is an exceptionally shallow wreck, making it accessible for novice divers and even snorkelers on a calm day. Due to its age and exposure to constant wave action, the wreck is heavily broken and scattered. Divers won't find an intact ship, but rather an atmospheric collection of iron plates, ribs, and machinery encrusted with marine life. It serves as a poignant reminder of the perils of 19th-century maritime travel and offers a fascinating glimpse into a long-lost piece of history.

Marine Protected Area: Gouliot Caves and Headland, Sark

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 BREMENRY

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 BREMENRY

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