CLAN MALCOLM - Cornwall & Devon

The Clan Malcolm wreck isn't your typical deep dive. No, this one's all about the intertidal zone, which we find utterly fascinating. She was a big steamship, ran aground in dense fog back in '35, then got broken up and dispersed with explosives. What's left, though, is an incredible playground for a very different kind of dive. We love exploring the scattered plates and twisted metal that lie in just a couple of metres of water. It's a fantastic spot for a long, shallow dive or even a snorkel on a calm day. Imagine the sun filtering through the water, illuminating the rust-coloured steel. You'll find crabs scuttling under every crevice, blennies peering out from bolt holes, and an amazing array of anemones clinging to the wreck. The colours are surprisingly vibrant, especially when the light hits them just right. We’d suggest timing your visit with a decent slack tide, otherwise, you'll be fighting the surge, which can really kick up the sand. It’s not about penetration here, it’s about slow exploration and appreciating the life that’s made a home in the wreckage.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
49.965050, -5.184358
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
2m

Marine Protected Area: Lizard 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 CLAN MALCOLM

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 MALCOLM

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 Clan Malcolm shipwreck in Cornwall?
The Clan Malcolm shipwreck in Cornwall & Devon is found at a shallow depth of 2 meters. This makes it an accessible site for divers looking to explore a historical wreck close to the surface.
What kind of marine life and wreck features can divers expect to see at the Clan Malcolm dive site?
Divers exploring the Clan Malcolm can expect to encounter the remains of a large steam ship vessel, measuring 123.4m by 16.2m. Sunk in 1935, the wreck was later dispersed using explosives, so divers will find scattered sections of this once-grand ship. While specific marine life details are not provided, the structure of the wreck typically attracts various local species.
How challenging is the Clan Malcolm dive site, particularly concerning currents and overall difficulty?
The Clan Malcolm dive site is classified as having an intermediate difficulty level. While specific current conditions are not detailed, an intermediate rating suggests that divers should be comfortable with basic wreck diving skills and potentially varying conditions. It is always recommended to check local conditions before diving.
When is the best time of year to dive the Clan Malcolm wreck for optimal conditions and visibility?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year to dive the Clan Malcolm wreck for optimal conditions or visibility. For general guidance on diving in the United Kingdom, you might consult resources on when to dive to understand typical seasonal variations. Always check local weather and sea conditions before planning your dive.
What scuba diving certifications are recommended or required to dive the Clan Malcolm shipwreck?
Given that the Clan Malcolm is an intermediate difficulty wreck dive, it is recommended that divers hold at least an Advanced Open Water certification or equivalent. Experience with wreck diving or a specialty certification would also be beneficial for navigating the dispersed sections of this historical steam ship. Always dive within your training and experience limits.
What are the typical current and visibility conditions experienced at the Clan Malcolm dive site?
The provided data does not include specific information regarding the typical current or visibility conditions at the Clan Malcolm dive site. As with any dive, it is crucial to consult local dive operators or guides for up-to-date reports on currents and visibility before planning your exploration of this historic wreck. Conditions can vary significantly based on weather and tides in Cornwall & Devon.