EMPRESS QUEEN
Protected Area
Whitecliff Bay and Bembridge Ledges
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) - EMPRESS QUEEN offers some of Cornwall & Devon's richest wreck diving. Water ranges 10-18°C, warmest July, August, September.
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.
Typical EMPRESS QUEEN 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 EMPRESS QUEEN
Dive shops near EMPRESS QUEEN
In2 Diving
Sussex Diving & Leisure
Mulberry Marine Experiences CIC
Andark Diving
Abyss Scuba School
Reviews for EMPRESS QUEEN
Conditions
Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for EMPRESS QUEEN
EMPRESS QUEEN Ocean Conditions
Monthly averages for EMPRESS QUEEN, 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
Plan & book
Ways to dive Cornwall & Devon, from day trips to liveaboards.
Day trips & courses
via GetYourGuideGuided dives, courses and snorkel trips with instant booking.
Find dive trips in Cornwall & DevonPlaces to stay
via Booking.comHotels and dive resorts near Cornwall & Devon.
Search stays in Cornwall & DevonDive insurance
Most travel insurance excludes or limits scuba. Check what you need before you go.
Dive insurance explainedPartner links: we may earn a commission if you book, at no extra cost to you. How we make money
Where to Stay near EMPRESS QUEEN
Prices from Booking.com. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.