EL KAHIRA - Cornwall & Devon

The El Kahira isn’t just a heap of metal; she’s a proper expedition. Lying at 57 metres, this 91-metre steamship demands respect and proper planning. We love a deep wreck, especially when it’s as intact and atmospheric as this one. Dropping down, the first thing that hits you is the sheer scale – her bows are still pointing proudly into the current, and you can trace her lines all the way to the stern. Inside, the triple-expansion engine is a magnificent sight, hulking amidst the gloom, an eerie testament to her power. Penetration is possible for experienced divers, revealing intact holds and accommodation spaces now home to conger eels the size of your thigh. Dead man’s fingers carpet the steel, and jewel anemones splash colour onto every surface. We’d suggest a sidemount configuration for anyone planning to explore her interior, and definitely keep an eye on your bottom time. The currents here can be fickle, so picking your slack water is crucial for a relaxed dive. This isn’t a quick dip; it’s a journey into maritime history.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.260735, -1.913733
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
57m

Marine Protected Area: West of Wight-Barfleur

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 EL KAHIRA

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 EL KAHIRA

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