EMPIRE TOWNSMAN
Protected Area
Newport Wetlands
Why dive here
With 176+ marine species recorded in the area - including blue sharks, dolphins, dwarf minke whales, humpback whales and ocean sunfish (mola mola) - EMPIRE TOWNSMAN offers some of Cornwall & Devon's richest wreck diving. Water ranges 10-18°C, warmest July, August, September.
The Empire Townsman, a steamship sunk in 1944, offers a surprisingly accessible wreck dive in Cornwall. She’s classified as a dangerous wreck due to her shallow depth, which means she’s broken up quite a bit but still holds plenty of interest. You’ll find her in just a few metres of water, perfect for extended bottom times and a more relaxed exploration. We've seen conger eels tucked into twisted metal and plenty of smaller fish darting through the structure, which is now largely overgrown with colourful anemones and sponges. It’s a great site for newer wreck divers or those looking for a long, shallow potter, particularly on a calm day when visibility extends nicely across the scattered debris.
Typical EMPIRE TOWNSMAN Dive Profile
Illustrative profile based on site depth and type. Actual dive profiles vary - always follow your dive computer and training.
Safety Notes
Wreck site - avoid penetration without wreck diving certification. Watch for sharp metal and entanglement hazards.
Nearest Dive Centres to EMPIRE TOWNSMAN
Dive shops near EMPIRE TOWNSMAN
Welsh Diving
Extreme Marine
The Lake
InDepth
Vobster Quay Dive Shop
Divexplore
Reviews for EMPIRE TOWNSMAN
Conditions
Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for EMPIRE TOWNSMAN
EMPIRE TOWNSMAN Ocean Conditions
Monthly averages for EMPIRE TOWNSMAN, sourced from Open-Meteo marine data - nearest station: Open-Meteo marine grid (50.44, -2.73) (3km away)
October Averages
Sea Temperature
17°C
62°F · Range: 15.1–17.5°C
Air Temperature
13°C
56°F
Wind Speed
8.14 m/s
15.8 knots
Atmospheric Pressure
1011 hPa
Based on 4 years of monitoring data · Data sources: Open-Meteo marine data
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