DAYLESFORD - Cornwall & Devon

The Daylesford is one of our absolute favourite deep wrecks in the Southwest. Dropping onto her at 41 metres, you’re met with an impressive, intact bow section, often shrouded in a shoal of pout. She went down in 1911, and time has been kind, covering her in jewel anemones and dead man’s fingers. We love exploring the engine room – the compound expansion engine is still very much there, a proper piece of maritime history. Her two boilers sit prominently midships, a familiar landmark on the dive. Keep an eye out for conger eels poking their heads from pipes and crevices; they’re often curious. This wreck is fantastic for experienced divers comfortable with deeper profiles and looking for a classic, atmospheric British wreck dive. The currents here can be lively, so picking your slack is key for an enjoyable dive, and we always suggest a good guide for your first visit.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.371150, -1.270417
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
41m

Marine Protected Area: Wight-Barfleur Reef

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 DAYLESFORD

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 DAYLESFORD

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 scuba diving in Lake Daylesford?
The Daylesford wreck, located off Cornwall & Devon, offers scuba diving to a depth of 41 meters. This specific depth is where divers can explore the remains of the steamship vessel. For more details on this dive site, visit the Daylesford dive site page.
What kind of underwater attractions or marine life can scuba divers expect to find in Lake Daylesford?
Scuba divers exploring the Daylesford site can expect to find the fascinating remains of a steam ship vessel, which sank on April 1, 1911. The wreck itself is the primary underwater attraction, featuring two boilers and a compound expansion engine. While specific marine life is not detailed for this site, wrecks often become artificial reefs, attracting various species over time; you can learn more about common marine life in the region on our wildlife database.
What is the difficulty level for scuba diving in Lake Daylesford, suitable for beginners or experienced divers?
The Daylesford wreck is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive site. This means it is best suited for divers who have some experience beyond entry-level certifications and are comfortable with deeper dives. Beginners should gain more experience before attempting this dive. Proper equipment and training are essential for an enjoyable and safe experience.
What is the best time of year or day to go scuba diving in Lake Daylesford for optimal conditions?
Information regarding the best time of year or day for optimal diving conditions at the Daylesford wreck is not provided in the current data. General guidance for diving in the United Kingdom often suggests summer months for better visibility and warmer temperatures, but specific details for this site are unavailable. For general advice on planning your dives, please visit our when to dive section.
Are there any specific scuba diving certifications required to dive in Lake Daylesford?
While specific certifications are not explicitly listed, diving the Daylesford wreck to its depth of 41 meters and its intermediate difficulty level typically requires advanced diving certifications. Divers should ideally hold an Advanced Open Water Diver certification or a Deep Diver specialty to safely and comfortably explore this site. Always ensure you have the appropriate training and equipment for such depths.
What are the usual water currents, visibility, and temperature conditions for divers in Lake Daylesford?
Details regarding the usual water currents, visibility, and temperature conditions for the Daylesford wreck are not available in the provided data. Divers planning to visit this site in Cornwall & Devon should consult local dive operators for the most up-to-date information on prevailing conditions. Understanding these factors is crucial for a safe and enjoyable dive experience.