CAPABLE - Cornwall & Devon

The Capable, sunk by a mine in 1940, offers a proper slice of history right here off the UK coast. Lying in just 11 metres, she’s a perfect dive for those wanting to spend some real time exploring a wreck without worrying about deep stops. We love how intact she is for a wreck of her age; you can still make out the bow and stern, and the engine room is often accessible, offering a great swim-through if conditions are calm. Our favourite part is the resident wrasse population, always darting amongst the twisted metal, and the occasional dogfish tucked into a crevice. The visibility can be a bit variable, typical for the Channel, but on a good day, the light filters down beautifully, illuminating the rusty structure and the green fronds of kelp that have taken root. We’d suggest timing your dive for slack water; the currents here can pick up, making the exploration a lot less comfortable. This is a brilliant site for newer wreck divers or those looking for a relaxed, atmospheric dive with a tangible link to the past.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.713333, -1.013889
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
11m

Wreck History - CAPABLE

Year Sunk
1940
Vessel Type
cargo ship
Cause
mine
Tonnage
173 GRT

The MV Capable was a small Dutch motor coaster built in 1918. With the outbreak of the Second World War, she was requisitioned for service by the British Ministry of War Transport. In early June 1940, in the chaotic days following the Dunkirk evacuation, the Capable was on a passage from Alderney to Portsmouth. The English Channel had become a treacherous battleground, not just from direct attack but also from hidden dangers laid beneath the surface.

On June 5th, 1940, as she steamed near Penlee Point off the coast of Cornwall, the Capable struck a magnetic mine that had been laid by German aircraft. The resulting explosion was catastrophic, and the small vessel sank quickly, tragically taking two of her crew with her. Today, the wreck of the Capable lies in just 11 meters of water in Plymouth Sound. The force of the explosion left her heavily broken, with wreckage scattered across the seabed. This shallow depth and easy access make her a very popular dive, especially for trainees. The wreckage has become a thriving artificial reef, home to a dense covering of marine life and a haven for fish, crabs, and lobsters.

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 CAPABLE

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 CAPABLE

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 maximum depth for diving at the CAPABLE dive site?
The maximum depth for diving at the CAPABLE dive site is 11 meters. This relatively shallow depth makes it accessible for many divers interested in exploring its history.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at CAPABLE?
At the CAPABLE dive site, divers can expect to explore the remains of a motor vessel, a wreck measuring 33.1m x 7m that was sunk on June 5, 1940. While specific marine life details are not provided, wreck sites often attract various local species. This particular wreck is classified as a dangerous wreck, adding to its unique character.
How challenging is the CAPABLE dive site for different experience levels?
The CAPABLE dive site is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive. This means it is suitable for divers who have some experience beyond entry-level certifications and are comfortable with wreck diving environments.
What is the best time of year or season to dive at CAPABLE for optimal conditions?
Specific data regarding the best time of year or season for optimal diving conditions at the CAPABLE dive site is not provided in the current information. For general guidance on diving in the Cornwall & Devon region, please consult our When to Dive section.
What scuba diving certifications are required to dive at CAPABLE?
Given that the CAPABLE dive site is rated as intermediate difficulty, divers should possess at least an Advanced Open Water certification or equivalent. This ensures they have the necessary skills and experience to safely navigate a wreck dive of this nature.
What are the typical currents and water conditions like at the CAPABLE dive site?
The provided data does not include specific details on typical currents or water conditions for the CAPABLE dive site. Divers planning a trip should always check local conditions and forecasts prior to diving.