Countess of Erne - Cornwall & Devon

The Countess of Erne is a site we’ve returned to time and again, and it rarely disappoints. Lying at just 13 metres, she’s a fantastic introduction to wreck diving in UK waters, especially for those still building confidence. We love how much of the wreck is still recognisable, even after sinking in 1935. You can still make out the paddle steamer’s wheels, two huge structures now completely encrusted with plumose anemones, waving gently in the current. Swimming through the collapsed superstructure, you’ll likely spook a few pollack, darting between the metalwork. Our favourite spot is usually around the bow, where crevices offer shelter to spider crabs and blennies. The visibility here can be classic UK – a bit green, a bit murky – but on a good day, when the sun filters through, the light plays beautifully on the anemones and dead man’s fingers. We’d suggest timing your dive for slack water to really enjoy poking around without fighting a current. It’s not a deep dive, but there’s enough to explore for a solid 40 minutes, making it a brilliant spot for multiple dives in a day.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.586300, -2.419800
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
13m
Difficulty
Beginner

Marine Protected Area: Chesil Beach and Stennis Ledges

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 Countess of Erne

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 Countess of Erne

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