CATO (POSSIBLY) - Cornwall & Devon

The *Cato*, a steamship resting at 15 metres, is our pick for a rewarding wreck dive off the Cornwall and Devon coast. She’s not deep, which means more bottom time, and the historical context of a magnetic mine taking her in 1940 adds a layer of solemnity. You’ll often find decent visibility here, letting you trace the outline of her 70-metre hull as it emerges from the seabed. We love exploring the bow, which stands proud and is usually draped in a thick carpet of plumose anemones, their frilly heads swaying gently in the mild current. Keep an eye out for the resident pollock darting between the skeletal ribs of the superstructure, and if you’re lucky, a curious conger eel might peek out from a shadowy corner. This wreck is perfect for divers who appreciate history and enjoy the quiet exploration of a substantial but accessible maritime grave. It’s a dive that feels substantial without being overly challenging.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
51.388866, -3.604333
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
15m

Marine Protected Area: Monknash Coast

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 CATO (POSSIBLY)

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 CATO (POSSIBLY)

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 range for scuba diving at Cato's Bridge?
The dive site, identified as the CATO (POSSIBLY) wreck, has a typical depth of 15 meters. This makes it accessible for divers with various certification levels. You can explore more dive sites in Cornwall & Devon.
What marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at Cato's Bridge?
Divers at the CATO (POSSIBLY) wreck can expect to explore the remains of a 70.4m x 9.4m steam ship vessel, which sank on March 3, 1940, due to a magnetic mine. While specific marine life is not detailed in the provided information, wrecks often become artificial reefs, attracting various local species. For general marine life information, visit our wildlife database.
Is Cato's Bridge considered a difficult dive site, and what is its suitability for beginner divers?
The CATO (POSSIBLY) wreck is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive site. While not suitable for absolute beginners, divers with some experience and appropriate certifications should find it manageable. Always ensure you have the necessary skills for wreck diving.
When is the best time to dive Cato's Bridge for the clearest water and calmest conditions?
The provided data does not specify the best time to dive the CATO (POSSIBLY) wreck for clearest water or calmest conditions. General information for diving in the United Kingdom often suggests summer months for potentially better conditions. For more general advice on dive planning, check our When to Dive section.
Are there any specific scuba diving certifications required to dive at Cato's Bridge?
Given that the CATO (POSSIBLY) wreck is an intermediate difficulty dive, divers should possess at least an Advanced Open Water certification or equivalent experience. While no specific certification is explicitly listed, proficiency in wreck diving techniques is highly recommended for exploring this steam ship vessel. Always dive within your training limits.
What are the usual current conditions and visibility levels at Cato's Bridge?
The available data for the CATO (POSSIBLY) wreck does not detail the usual current conditions or visibility levels. As with any dive site, these factors can vary significantly based on weather and tides. It is always advisable to check local dive reports before planning your dive at this dive site.