CAMSWAN - Cornwall & Devon

The *Camswan* is a wreck that truly tells a story, even if it’s a tragic one. Sunk on her maiden voyage in 1917 after a collision, this steamship lies in about 15 metres, which makes it accessible for most divers. We love how intact she is; you can still discern the bow and stern, and it feels like stepping back in time. The visibility here can be hit or miss, typical for the UK, but when it’s good, the sheer scale of the 102-metre vessel is impressive. Look for the huge boilers and engine block, which are now completely encrusted with plumose anemones and dead man's fingers. Our favourite thing is exploring the cargo holds, often filled with schools of juvenile pollock that shimmer in the ambient light. You'll often spot conger eels tucked into crevices, their heads peering out, making for some excellent photo opportunities. It’s a site that suits divers who appreciate historical wrecks and aren't afraid of cooler water and the occasional current.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.643890, -1.092222
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
15m

Wreck History - CAMSWAN

Year Sunk
1917
Vessel Type
cargo ship
Cause
collision

The story of the SS Camswan is a short and tragic one. Built in 1917 by the Blyth Shipbuilding & Drydock Co., she was a brand-new steamship launched amidst the turmoil of the First World War. Owned by the Osborne Steamship Company, she was loaded with cargo and set off from Blyth, destined for Naples, Italy, on her highly anticipated maiden voyage.

Tragically, the Camswan would never complete its first journey. On October 19, 1917, while navigating the busy shipping lanes off the coast of Devon, she was involved in a catastrophic collision with another vessel. The damage was too severe for the new ship to withstand, and she quickly foundered and sank beneath the waves. It was a heartbreaking end for a vessel that had only just begun its life.

Lying at a shallow depth of just 15 meters, the remains of the Camswan are now a popular dive site for novice wreck divers and photographers. The vessel is significantly broken up after more than a century on the seabed, but its boilers and engine block are still clearly visible, providing a focal point for the dive. The scattered wreckage has created a rich habitat for marine life, with wrasse, pollack, and colorful anemones adorning the twisted steel plates.

Marine Protected Area: Bembridge Down

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 CAMSWAN

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 CAMSWAN

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 depth of the CAMSWAN dive site?
The CAMSWAN dive site has a typical depth of 15m. This makes it accessible for divers with appropriate training looking to explore this historic wreck.
What kind of marine life and wreck features can divers expect to see on the CAMSWAN wreck?
The CAMSWAN is a significant wreck feature, a steam ship vessel measuring 102.1m x 15.5m, which sank in 1917. While specific marine life isn't detailed, divers can expect to explore the structure of this large, historic wreck. It is classified as a dangerous wreck, indicating its substantial and potentially complex features.
How challenging is the CAMSWAN dive site for scuba divers?
The CAMSWAN dive site is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive. Additionally, it is noted as a "Dangerous wreck," suggesting that divers should be prepared for potential complexities or hazards associated with its structure.
When is the best time of year to dive the CAMSWAN wreck for optimal conditions?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year to dive the CAMSWAN wreck for optimal conditions. For general information on diving seasons and conditions in the region, you might consult our When to Dive guide.
What scuba diving certifications are required to dive the CAMSWAN wreck?
Given that the CAMSWAN wreck dive site is rated as intermediate difficulty, divers should possess certifications appropriate for such conditions, typically Advanced Open Water or equivalent. It's always recommended to dive within your certified limits and consider additional training for wreck diving.
What are the typical current and sea conditions at the CAMSWAN dive site?
The provided data does not include specific information on the typical current or sea conditions at the CAMSWAN dive site. Divers planning to visit this wreck should consult local dive operators for up-to-date conditions.