EMPIRE CRUSADER - Cornwall & Devon

The *Empire Crusader* sits upright on the seabed at 35 metres, a proper steamship wreck that still feels like a ship. Built in Germany in 1925, then captured and pressed into British service, she went down in 1940. We find the bow section particularly intact, with the holds offering straightforward penetration for those with the right training. Look for conger eels peering from the darker recesses and the usual suspects of ballan wrasse patrolling the decks. It’s a solid dive for experienced cold-water wreck enthusiasts, especially when the visibility kicks in during a calm spell.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.450397, -1.451805
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
35m

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 EMPIRE CRUSADER

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 EMPIRE CRUSADER

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 EMPIRE CRUSADER dive site?
The EMPIRE CRUSADER dive site has a maximum depth of 35m. This makes it a fascinating deep dive, suitable for divers with appropriate training and experience for such depths.
What marine life and wreck features can divers expect to see on the EMPIRE CRUSADER?
The EMPIRE CRUSADER is a significant wreck dive, a steam ship vessel measuring 68.5m x 10.1m. Divers can explore the remains of this vessel, which was built in 1925 and sunk on August 8, 1940. While specific marine life isn't detailed in the provided data, wreck sites often attract various species over time, which you can learn more about in our wildlife database.
How challenging is the EMPIRE CRUSADER wreck dive, and what skill level is recommended?
The EMPIRE CRUSADER wreck dive is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive. Due to its maximum depth of 35m and classification as a "Dangerous wreck," divers should possess appropriate experience and training for challenging wreck environments. Advanced equipment and skills are recommended for a safe exploration of this site.
What are the best months or seasons to dive the EMPIRE CRUSADER for optimal conditions?
The provided data does not specify the best months or seasons for diving the EMPIRE CRUSADER for optimal conditions. For up-to-date information on seasonal conditions, it's always best to consult local dive operators in Cornwall & Devon or refer to our When to Dive section.
What scuba diving certifications are required or highly recommended to dive the EMPIRE CRUSADER?
Given the EMPIRE CRUSADER's maximum depth of 35m and its classification as an intermediate and "Dangerous wreck," advanced certifications are highly recommended. Divers should ideally hold a Deep Diver specialty and potentially a Wreck Diver specialty to safely and effectively explore this dive site.
What are the typical underwater currents and visibility like at the EMPIRE CRUSADER dive site?
The provided data does not include specific details regarding the typical underwater currents or visibility at the EMPIRE CRUSADER dive site. Divers planning to visit this wreck should consult local dive centers for current conditions and forecasts to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.