CHESHIRE (POSSIBLY) - Cornwall & Devon

The *Cheshire* is one of those wrecks that, for us, just keeps giving. Lying deep at 55 metres, she’s a serious tech dive, no doubt, but the rewards are there for those with the training. Dropping down, the visibility in this part of Lyme Bay can be surprising, often hitting 15 metres on a good day, even if it’s usually darker than a stout. She’s a decent sized steamship, 54 metres long, and lies largely intact, albeit with a slight list. We love tracing the deck, picking out the mast stumps and the donkey boiler, which is often swarming with pouting and dogfish. The cargo holds, once packed with coal, are now open invitations for exploration, and you’ll find conger eels lurking in the deeper recesses, heads poking out from under twisted metal. Our favourite part? The stern, where the propeller is still in place, encrusted with dead man's fingers and anemones. It’s a proper dive into maritime history, with enough structure and life to keep you busy for a solid bottom time. Just be ready for the chill, even in summer.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.173940, -3.229420
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
55m

Marine Protected Area: East of Start Point

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 CHESHIRE (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 CHESHIRE (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 diving at the Cheshire (Possibly) dive site?
The Cheshire (Possibly) dive site is located at a depth of 55m. This makes it a deep dive, suitable for experienced divers with appropriate training. Divers should be prepared for conditions typical of such depths.
What kind of underwater features, aquatic life, or attractions can divers expect to see at Cheshire (Possibly)?
Divers visiting the Cheshire (Possibly) dive site can explore the remains of a steam ship vessel. This steel wreck, built in 1904 and sunk on March 8, 1922, measures 54.3m x 8.8m and carried a cargo of large steam coal. It is classified as a non-dangerous wreck, offering a fascinating historical exploration.
How difficult is diving at Cheshire (Possibly), and is it suitable for beginner or advanced divers?
Diving at the Cheshire (Possibly) dive site is classified as intermediate difficulty. With a depth of 55m, it is not suitable for beginner divers and requires appropriate training and experience for safe exploration. This site is best suited for advanced divers with deep diving certifications.
What is the best time of year to dive at Cheshire (Possibly) for optimal conditions and visibility?
Information regarding the best time of year to dive at the Cheshire (Possibly) dive site for optimal conditions and visibility is not available in the current data. We recommend checking local dive conditions and forecasts closer to your planned dive date for the best time to dive.
Are there any specific diving certifications or experience levels required to dive at Cheshire (Possibly)?
Given the intermediate difficulty and significant depth of 55m, diving at Cheshire (Possibly) requires divers to possess advanced certifications and experience in deep diving. It is not recommended for entry-level divers due to the technical demands of the site. Always ensure your equipment is suitable for deep wreck diving.
What are the usual water conditions, such as currents, temperature, and visibility, at the Cheshire (Possibly) dive site?
Specific details regarding usual water conditions such as currents, temperature, and visibility at the Cheshire (Possibly) dive site are not available in the provided data. Divers should consult local dive operators for up-to-date information and current conditions before planning their dive. The wreck foundered in an extremely heavy NW gale, indicating the potential for strong weather in the area.