CHELARIS J - Cornwall & Devon

The Chelaris J, resting at a comfortable 22 metres, is one of those wrecks we return to again and again. She’s a compact fishing vessel, not huge, but perfectly formed for an hour of exploration. We love how her modest size means you can really get a feel for the whole structure in a single dive. Her wheelhouse is a fantastic spot to poke around, often with conger eels peering out from shadowed corners, their beady eyes following your torch beam. What makes the Chelaris J really sing is the way the marine life has completely claimed her. We’ve seen schools of pollack shimmering above the deck, and when the light catches them just right, it’s a beautiful sight. Lobsters are frequent residents, tucked into crevices, and we’ve even spotted catsharks cruising past her stern. For divers who enjoy smaller, more intimate wrecks with a healthy dose of resident critters, this one’s a winner. Our top tip: dive her on a slack tide, the current can pick up, but when it's calm, the visibility often extends beautifully, revealing every detail of her encrusted hull.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
49.605217, -2.216233
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
22m

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 CHELARIS J

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 CHELARIS J

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 diving the CHELARIS J wreck?
The CHELARIS J wreck is situated at a typical depth of 22 meters. This depth makes it an accessible dive for those with the appropriate training and experience.
What marine life and structural features can divers expect to encounter on the CHELARIS J wreck?
The CHELARIS J is a former fishing vessel, measuring 16.8m x 5.5m, offering interesting structural features for exploration. While specific marine life details are not provided in the data, wrecks commonly serve as artificial reefs, attracting a variety of local marine species.
How challenging is the CHELARIS J dive site, particularly regarding currents and overall conditions?
The CHELARIS J dive site is classified as having an intermediate difficulty and is noted as a dangerous wreck. Divers should be prepared for conditions consistent with an intermediate dive, which may include varying currents and require good buoyancy control.
When is the optimal time of year or tidal window to dive the CHELARIS J for the best experience?
The provided data does not specify an optimal time of year or particular tidal window for diving the CHELARIS J. For general guidance on planning your dives and understanding local conditions, please refer to our When to Dive section.
What level of diving certification is necessary or recommended for diving the CHELARIS J wreck?
Given the CHELARIS J wreck's depth of 22 meters and intermediate difficulty rating, an Advanced Open Water Diver certification or equivalent is generally recommended. This ensures divers possess the necessary skills and experience for safe and enjoyable wreck diving.
What are the usual visibility and water temperature conditions at the CHELARIS J dive site?
The available data does not include specific information regarding the usual visibility or water temperature conditions at the CHELARIS J dive site. We recommend checking current local dive reports for Cornwall & Devon before planning your dive.