DUKE OF BUCCLEUCH - Cornwall & Devon

The Duke of Buccleuch is a proper deep wreck, resting at 54 metres, and for us, it's one of the best for sheer scale and atmosphere off the Cornish coast. She was a big steamship, and that size is evident as you descend onto her. What we love about this wreck is how intact she remains for a vessel lost in 1889. You can still make out the bow, the stern, and even parts of the superstructure. The boilers are a focal point, massive and surrounded by conger eels that have made themselves right at home. We've seen some absolutely huge ones here, peering out from every nook. The prop is another highlight, often adorned with jewel anemones, sparkling like scattered gems in your torch beam. Visibility can be a challenge, so we'd always recommend picking a slack tide and a day with minimal swell for the best experience. It's a dive that rewards careful planning and experienced deep divers. You’ll spend your bottom time navigating cavernous holds and discovering the delicate balance of history and marine life that now defines this impressive wreck.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.492140, -0.434996
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
54m

Marine Protected Area: Offshore Overfalls

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 DUKE OF BUCCLEUCH

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 DUKE OF BUCCLEUCH

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 maximum depth of the Duke of Buccleuch dive site?
The maximum depth of the Duke of Buccleuch dive site is 54 meters. This deep wreck dive requires appropriate training and experience.
What kind of marine life and wreck features can divers expect to see on the Duke of Buccleuch?
Divers exploring the Duke of Buccleuch can expect to encounter the remains of a substantial steam ship vessel. Key wreck features include its three boilers, a compound expansion engine of 500NHP, and a single shaft, all part of a vessel measuring 115.8m x 11.7m. This non-dangerous wreck, built in 1873, offers a fascinating glimpse into maritime history.
How challenging is diving the Duke of Buccleuch wreck, and what level of experience is recommended?
Diving the Duke of Buccleuch wreck is classified as intermediate difficulty. Given its depth of 54 meters, divers should possess appropriate training and experience for deep wreck diving.
When is the best time of year or what are the optimal conditions to dive the Duke of Buccleuch for good visibility?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year or optimal conditions for diving the Duke of Buccleuch for good visibility. For general guidance on dive conditions, you might consult our When to Dive section.
What diving certifications are required to dive the Duke of Buccleuch wreck?
While specific certification requirements are not explicitly stated in the provided data, the Duke of Buccleuch is an intermediate difficulty wreck dive to a depth of 54 meters. Divers should hold certifications appropriate for deep wreck diving, ensuring they have the necessary training and experience for such conditions.
What are the typical current conditions and visibility like at the Duke of Buccleuch dive site?
The provided data does not include specific information regarding the typical current conditions or visibility at the Duke of Buccleuch dive site. Divers planning a trip should consult local dive operators for the most current conditions.