CLARINDA - Cornwall & Devon

The Clarinda is one of those wrecks that just oozes history, even if she’s broken up now. We love the way she’s spread across the seabed at 37m, a real treasure hunt of twisted metal and machinery. You’ll find two huge boilers, still very much intact, standing proud amongst the debris. The wreck is well-colonised by plumose anemones, their white tentacles swaying gently in the current, creating a stark contrast against the dark steel. We’ve also seen plenty of conger eels here, tucked into the more sheltered spots, and occasionally a curious dogfish cruising past. Visibility can be a bit hit or miss in these waters, but when it’s good, the Clarinda is genuinely spectacular. We’d suggest diving this one on a slack tide; the currents can pick up and make exploring those deeper sections a real workout. She’s a site for experienced divers comfortable with deeper wrecks and potentially lower visibility. It’s a proper plunge into maritime history.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.464443, -1.660997
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
37m

Marine Protected Area: Albert Field

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 CLARINDA

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 CLARINDA

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 are the typical diving depths at the CLARINDA dive site?
The CLARINDA dive site, a fascinating wreck located in Cornwall & Devon, is typically found at a depth of 37 meters. This makes it an ideal dive for those comfortable with deeper wreck explorations. Divers should be prepared for a dive profile suitable for this depth.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at CLARINDA?
Divers visiting the CLARINDA can expect to explore the remains of a 67.1m x 9.3m steam ship vessel, built in 1871 and sunk on October 17, 1885. This non-dangerous wreck features notable structures like two boilers and a compound expansion engine. While specific marine life is not detailed in the provided data, wrecks like the CLARINDA often become vibrant artificial reefs, attracting various local species.
How challenging is diving at CLARINDA, considering potential currents and topography?
Diving at the CLARINDA wreck is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive. This suggests that divers should have prior experience with wreck diving and be comfortable with the 37-meter depth. While specific current details are not provided, intermediate dives often require good buoyancy control and awareness of potential conditions around the wreck's topography.
What is the best time of year to visit CLARINDA for optimal diving conditions and marine life encounters?
The provided data for the CLARINDA dive site does not specify the best time of year for optimal diving conditions or marine life encounters. For general guidance on seasonal diving in the Cornwall & Devon region, we recommend consulting broader when-to-dive resources or local dive operators. They can provide up-to-date information on seasonal variations.
What scuba diving certifications are typically required or recommended for diving at CLARINDA?
Given the 37-meter depth and intermediate difficulty classification of the CLARINDA wreck, divers are typically required or recommended to hold an Advanced Open Water certification or an equivalent deep diving specialty. This ensures divers possess the necessary training and experience for safely exploring deeper wreck sites. Always check with your dive operator for their specific requirements.
What are the usual current conditions and visibility like at the CLARINDA dive site?
The provided data for the CLARINDA dive site does not include specific details regarding usual current conditions or visibility. As an experienced dive guide, I advise divers planning to visit this Cornwall & Devon wreck to consult local dive operators. They can provide the most accurate and up-to-date information on these environmental factors, which can vary significantly.