ELIZABETH CAROLINE - Cornwall & Devon

The Elizabeth Caroline is a relatively recent addition to the Cornish wreck scene, sinking in 2012 while under tow. At 27 metres long and sitting upright in 59 metres of water, this fishing vessel is a serious technical dive, no question. We love how quickly this wreck has transformed from a sunken boat into a vibrant habitat. Drop down onto her deck and you’ll find the wheelhouse still largely intact, providing some great swim-throughs if you're qualified and careful. What makes her special for us is the sheer volume of fish. Shoals of bib and pouting absolutely swarm the superstructure, so thick at times they can obscure the bow. Look closer and the anenomes and hydroids have really started to take hold, giving the metal a shaggy, colourful coat. It’s a proper expedition dive, requiring meticulous planning and ideally a rebreather to truly appreciate the time down there. For those with the right training, it’s a chance to explore a wreck still in excellent condition and teeming with evolving marine life.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.140650, -3.893383
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
59m

Marine Protected Area: Start Point to Plymouth Sound and Eddystone

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 ELIZABETH CAROLINE

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 ELIZABETH CAROLINE

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