EMPRESS QUEEN - Cornwall & Devon

The Empress Queen, a steamship lost in 1916, rests on Bembridge Ledge, not far from the coast. While the data says 1m maximum depth, the exposed nature means she's more typically a snorkel or very shallow free-diving spot, often with parts visible at low tide. We’ve found the remains of her hull and superstructure are well-broken, scattered across the seabed rather than standing proud. You’ll be exploring plates and ribs, now home to plenty of wrasse and crabs, especially where the kelp offers shelter. It’s a site for those who appreciate history and don't mind a very shallow dive, perhaps best combined with a day exploring the coastline above.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.676970, -1.068956
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
1m

Marine Protected Area: Whitecliff Bay and Bembridge Ledges

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 EMPRESS QUEEN

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 EMPRESS QUEEN

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 Empress Queen dive site?
The Empress Queen dive site has an exceptionally shallow maximum depth of 1 meter. This makes it a unique and accessible wreck for divers looking to explore historical sites in Cornwall & Devon.
What kind of marine life and wreck features can divers expect to see at the Empress Queen?
Divers exploring the Empress Queen can expect to see the remains of a significant steam ship vessel, built in 1897 and sunk in 1916. The wreck is classified as showing any portion of its hull or superstructure, offering a glimpse into its past. While specific marine life isn't detailed, wrecks often become artificial reefs, attracting local species which can be explored further in our wildlife database.
How challenging is diving the Empress Queen wreck, and what factors contribute to its difficulty?
Diving the Empress Queen wreck is rated as intermediate difficulty. Despite its shallow depth of 1 meter, factors such as strong currents, limited visibility, or specific entry/exit challenges often contribute to this rating. Divers should be prepared for varying conditions typical of Cornwall & Devon.
What are the best times of year or specific tidal conditions recommended for diving the Empress Queen?
The provided data does not specify the best times of year or particular tidal conditions recommended for diving the Empress Queen. For optimal planning, it is always advisable to consult local dive operators in Cornwall & Devon for up-to-date information on local conditions and tides, or visit our When to Dive section.
What scuba diving certifications are required or highly recommended to dive the Empress Queen wreck?
Given the intermediate difficulty rating of the Empress Queen wreck, divers should ideally possess an Advanced Open Water certification or equivalent experience. While the maximum depth is only 1 meter, the wreck environment and potential local conditions may necessitate advanced skills. Always ensure your certification level aligns with the dive's demands.
What are the typical currents, visibility, and water temperatures experienced at the Empress Queen dive site?
The provided data does not include specific information regarding typical currents, visibility, or water temperatures at the Empress Queen dive site. These conditions can vary significantly in Cornwall & Devon. It is highly recommended to check with local dive centers or resources for current conditions before planning your dive.