ERIC CALVERT - Cornwall & Devon

Dropping onto the Eric Calvert, you’re met with a proper slice of WWI history. This steamship, torpedoed in 1918, lies at a serious depth of 59m, making it a dive for experienced technical divers only. We found the stern section particularly intact, with the prop shaft still visible, often draped in dead man's fingers. Visibility here can be a bit of a lottery, as it often is in the Channel, but on a good day, the scale of this 82m vessel is impressive, with schools of pouting weaving through the holds and conger eels peeking from beneath twisted metal. It’s a somber, rewarding dive for those ready for the challenge.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.067265, -5.017711
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
59m

Marine Protected Area: The Manacles

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 ERIC CALVERT

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 ERIC CALVERT

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 typical depth range for diving at the Eric Calvert dive site?
The Eric Calvert dive site is a deep wreck dive, with a typical depth of 59 meters. Divers should be prepared for significant depths when exploring this historic steamship.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at Eric Calvert?
The primary underwater feature at Eric Calvert is the historical wreck of a steamship vessel, torpedoed in 1918. This 82.4m x 11.3m non-dangerous wreck offers a fascinating glimpse into maritime history. While specific marine life is not detailed, wrecks often become artificial reefs, attracting various species over time.
How challenging is diving at Eric Calvert, and is it suitable for beginner divers?
Diving at the Eric Calvert site is classified as intermediate difficulty. Given its depth of 59 meters and the nature of wreck diving, it is generally not suitable for beginner divers. Divers should possess appropriate experience and certifications for deep and wreck diving.
What is the best time of year or season to dive at the Eric Calvert site for optimal conditions?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year or season for optimal diving conditions at the Eric Calvert site. For general guidance on planning your dive trips, you can explore our When to Dive resource.
What scuba diving certifications are required to dive at Eric Calvert?
Given the Eric Calvert dive site's depth of 59 meters and intermediate difficulty, divers would typically require advanced certifications such as Deep Diver and potentially Wreck Diver specialties. These certifications ensure you have the necessary training and experience for such challenging conditions.
What are the typical currents and water conditions like at the Eric Calvert dive site?
The available data does not provide specific details regarding typical currents or water conditions at the Eric Calvert dive site. Divers planning a trip should consult local dive operators for the most up-to-date information on conditions in Cornwall & Devon.