ERIC CALVERT (POSSIBLY) - Cornwall & Devon

The Eric Calvert, likely the former Elmville, is a deep dive off the Cornish coast, sitting at 58 metres. This old steamship, sunk in 1918, is a substantial wreck at 82.4 metres long. We’ve found her two boilers and the triple expansion engine still largely intact, which always makes for an interesting rummage. Visibility can be hit or miss, but on a good day, the structure provides a home for conger eels, resident wrasse, and sometimes even a stray john dory. It's a dive for experienced wreck enthusiasts comfortable with deeper profiles and the often-stronger currents of the English Channel.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.070050, -5.006900
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
58m

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 (POSSIBLY)

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 (POSSIBLY)

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 located at a depth of 58 meters. This makes it a deep dive, suitable for experienced divers. Divers should be prepared for the challenges associated with such depths.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at Eric Calvert?
Divers exploring the Eric Calvert can expect to encounter a fascinating wreck site. This is a steam ship vessel, measuring 82.4m x 11.3m, which sank on April 22, 1918, and features two boilers and a triple expansion engine. While specific marine life details are not provided, wrecks often become artificial reefs, attracting various species over time.
How would you rate the difficulty level of diving at Eric Calvert, and is it suitable for beginners?
The Eric Calvert dive site is rated as intermediate difficulty. Due to its depth of 58 meters and the nature of wreck diving, it is not suitable for beginners. Divers should possess appropriate training and experience for deep and wreck dives.
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 diving in the Cornwall & Devon region, you may consult our When to Dive section.
Are there any specific diving certifications required to dive at Eric Calvert?
While specific certifications are not explicitly listed, given the 58-meter depth and intermediate difficulty rating of the Eric Calvert wreck, advanced or deep diver certifications would be highly recommended. Divers should always ensure they have the necessary training and experience for such challenging dives.
What are the typical currents and water conditions like at the Eric Calvert dive site?
The provided data does not include specific information regarding typical currents or water conditions at the Eric Calvert dive site. Divers planning to visit this deep wreck in Cornwall & Devon should consult local dive operators for the most current conditions before their dive.