CLAN MACVEY - Cornwall & Devon

The Clan Macvey. Now here’s a wreck that really gets our attention off the Lizard. She's a WWI casualty, torpedoed by a German U-boat in 1918, a brand new ship on her maiden voyage too. Tragic really, but it makes for a cracking dive. At 18 metres, she’s accessible to most, though we’d suggest some solid experience with UK currents; they can be frisky out here. What we love about the Macvey is how much of her remains. She’s broken, of course, but the sheer scale of the hull is impressive. You’ll fin over huge plates, past ribs that reach up like skeletal fingers, and into cargo holds now colonised by dead man’s fingers and anemones. Look for the engine room, often bustling with conger eels – some of them absolute monsters. Visibility can vary, as it always does in these waters, but on a good day, when the sun penetrates the surface, the whole wreck glows with a ghostly light. It’s a proper historical dive, a poignant reminder of the war, and a fantastic habitat for local marine life. Our pick for a classic Cornish wreck dive.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.661260, -1.781392
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
18m

Marine Protected Area: Southbourne Rough

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 CLAN MACVEY

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 CLAN MACVEY

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 of the Clan Macvey dive site?
The maximum depth of the Clan Macvey dive site is 18 meters. This makes it accessible for a range of recreational divers, offering a fascinating wreck experience within typical recreational limits.
What kind of marine life and wreck features can divers expect to see on the Clan Macvey?
The Clan Macvey is a substantial steam ship vessel, measuring 121.9m x 16.2m, offering extensive wreck features to explore. Divers can expect to navigate the remains of this ship, which was torpedoed by UB 5 in 1918. While specific marine life is not detailed, wrecks typically attract a variety of local species, making it a fascinating site for wildlife observation.
How challenging is the Clan Macvey wreck dive for recreational divers?
The Clan Macvey wreck dive is classified as intermediate difficulty for recreational divers. It is also noted as a "Dangerous wreck," indicating that divers should approach it with appropriate training and caution. Divers should ensure they have the necessary experience and equipment for such a site.
What are the best months or conditions to dive the Clan Macvey for optimal visibility and experience?
The provided data does not specify the best months or conditions for optimal visibility and experience at the Clan Macvey dive site. For general guidance on when to dive in the Cornwall & Devon region, please consult our When to Dive section. Local dive operators can also provide up-to-date information on current conditions.
What diving certifications are typically required to dive the Clan Macvey wreck?
Given the Clan Macvey is an intermediate difficulty wreck dive with a maximum depth of 18 meters, divers are typically recommended to hold at least an Advanced Open Water certification. For enhanced safety and skill, a Wreck Diver specialty certification would be highly beneficial. Always dive within your training limits and consider local dive operator requirements.
What are the typical underwater currents and visibility like at the Clan Macvey dive site?
The provided data does not include specific details regarding the typical underwater currents or visibility at the Clan Macvey dive site. Conditions can vary greatly depending on local weather and tides in Cornwall & Devon. It is always advisable to check with local dive operators for up-to-date conditions before planning your dive.