DILIGENT - Cornwall & Devon

Dive the Diligent, and you're dropping into a proper piece of history. This 1888 steamship, resting at 41 metres, is exactly what we look for in a deep wreck. We love the scale of it, the way the bows rise out of the seabed, still so recognisably a ship even after over a century on the bottom. You’ll find two massive boilers standing proud, often obscured slightly by the murk and giving it a real atmospheric feel. The visibility here can swing wildly, but when it’s good, the site offers so much to explore. Expect to see conger eels tucked into every crevice, their heads poking out from the collapsed holds. Our favourite is exploring around the triple expansion engine; it’s a brilliant scramble over the machinery, with schools of pouting darting through the superstructure. This isn't a site for beginners. We'd suggest waiting for a calm day with minimal current, and make sure your deep diving skills are sharp. The Diligent is a serious dive for those who appreciate a substantial wreck.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.816200, -4.763750
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
41m

Marine Protected Area: Bristol Channel Approaches / Dynesfeydd Môr Hafren

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 DILIGENT

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 DILIGENT

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 at the DILIGENT dive site?
The DILIGENT dive site is situated at a maximum depth of 41 meters, making it suitable for divers comfortable with deeper conditions. This depth allows for exploration of the impressive steamship vessel wreck. You can learn more about this site at DILIGENT.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can be expected at the DILIGENT dive site?
The primary underwater feature at the DILIGENT dive site is the substantial wreck of a steamship vessel, measuring 89.1m x 11.9m, which sank in 1917. This artificial reef typically attracts various marine life, though specific species are not detailed in the provided information. Divers can explore its structure, including two boilers and a triple expansion engine. For general information on marine life, visit our wildlife database.
How challenging is the DILIGENT dive site for different experience levels?
The DILIGENT dive site is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive. Its depth of 41 meters requires divers to have experience with deeper conditions and potentially advanced training. This ensures a safe and enjoyable exploration of the wreck.
What is the best time of year or season to dive at the DILIGENT dive site for optimal conditions?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year or season for optimal diving conditions at the DILIGENT dive site. For current conditions and seasonal recommendations, it is always best to consult local dive operators in Cornwall & Devon. You can also explore general advice on when to dive.
What scuba diving certifications are required or recommended to dive at the DILIGENT dive site?
Given its depth of 41 meters and classification as an intermediate dive, divers are typically required to hold at least an Advanced Open Water certification or a Deep Diver specialty. These certifications ensure divers possess the necessary skills and experience for safe exploration of the DILIGENT wreck.
What are the typical current conditions and visibility like at the DILIGENT dive site?
The provided data does not include specific details regarding typical current conditions or visibility at the DILIGENT dive site. For the most up-to-date information on these factors, we recommend contacting local dive centers or experienced guides familiar with diving in the United Kingdom.