CAMPEADOR 5 (BOW SECTION)(PROBABLY) - Cornwall & Devon

The Campeador 5's bow section is, quite simply, a fantastic little dive. We know, "probably" a Campeador, but whatever its origins, this wreck is a real window into wartime history, even if it feels more like a playground now. Sitting upright at a comfortable 9 metres, it’s a brilliant site for newer wreck divers or those looking for a relaxed bimble. You’re not going to find grand swim-throughs here, but the jagged metal plates and twisted beams tell a story. Look for the way the light filters through the gaps in the hull, illuminating schools of pollock darting in and out. Ballan wrasse are everywhere, bold and curious, picking at the anemones that coat every surface. Our favourite detail? The sheer density of plumose anemones on the deeper sections, brilliant white against the dark steel. We always suggest hitting this one on a slack tide, otherwise, you'll be fighting the current instead of enjoying the history. It's an easy entry from a RIB, and often paired with other nearby wrecks for a double dive.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.689750, -1.003130
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
9m

Wreck History - CAMPEADOR 5 (BOW SECTION)(PROBABLY)

Year Sunk
1940
Vessel Type
yacht
Cause
mined

The vessel known as Campeador 5 was originally a private yacht, enjoying a life of leisure before its story took a dramatic turn with the outbreak of World War II. Like many private vessels, it was requisitioned for military service, pressed into the war effort to patrol the vital coastal waters of the United Kingdom. These 'little ships' played a crucial role in coastal defense, submarine spotting, and rescue operations.

On June 22, 1940, during the intense early stages of the war, Campeador 5's service came to an abrupt and violent end. While on patrol in the English Channel, the converted yacht struck a German mine. The explosion tore the vessel apart, sending it to the bottom. This site is believed to be the bow section of the unfortunate yacht.

Lying at a shallow depth of just 9 meters, this wreck is an incredibly accessible dive for all certification levels. Divers can explore the scattered remains of the yacht's bow, a poignant reminder of the civilian sacrifice during the war. Its 'Dangerous Wreck' classification is a warning of sharp, twisted metal, but for the cautious diver, it offers a fascinating look at a piece of WWII history, now encrusted with kelp and home to crabs and wrasse.

Marine Protected Area: Whitecliff Bay and Bembridge Ledges

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 CAMPEADOR 5 (BOW SECTION)(PROBABLY)

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 CAMPEADOR 5 (BOW SECTION)(PROBABLY)

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