CALVADOS - Cornwall & Devon

The *Calvados* is a proper piece of history, and we love a wreck that tells a story even in its broken state. Sunk way back in 1976 after striking rocks off Cap La Hague, this 15.2-metre sailing vessel now lies scattered at 30 metres, a stark reminder of the sea’s power. You won't find an intact hull here, but what you *will* find are spread-out sections of framework, plates, and timbers, all completely encrusted. This isn’t a rummage-through-the-ship site; it's more of an archaeological treasure hunt. We enjoy the challenge of identifying what’s what among the debris, picturing the ship as she once was. Look closely at the metalwork; you'll often see velvet swimming crabs tucked into crevices, their red eyes peering out. Conger eels are regulars, too, especially around the larger, more sheltered pieces of structure. It’s a site that suits divers who appreciate the quiet dignity of a wreck slowly being reclaimed by the ocean, rather than those chasing big pelagics. Early morning dives often bring the best visibility before any boat traffic stirs up the silty seabed. Bring a good torch; the light at 30 metres, even on a sunny day, brings out the surprising colours of the anemones and sponges.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
49.732334, -1.968000
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
30m

Wreck History - CALVADOS

Year Sunk
1976
Vessel Type
sailing vessel
Cause
grounding

The final voyage of the sailing vessel Calvados ended abruptly on a stormy day in October 1976. While navigating near the treacherous rocks of Cap la Hague, the 15-meter vessel was driven onto the shore. Fortunately, the entire crew was recovered safely, but the sea was not finished with the Calvados. The severe weather conditions that followed made any salvage attempt impossible, and the vessel was abandoned to its fate.

Now resting at a depth of 30 meters, the Calvados offers a fascinating dive on a relatively modern wreck. Unlike heavily decayed historical vessels, its structure is likely more intact, giving divers a clearer picture of a small sailing craft. The site provides a unique opportunity to explore a vessel lost to the raw power of the sea, a poignant reminder of the challenges of navigating the British coastline.

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 CALVADOS

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 CALVADOS

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