FLORENCE REYNOLDS - Cornwall & Devon

The Florence Reynolds is one of those wrecks that just clicks. She sits upright and intact at 53 metres, a proper steamship with real character. We love nosing around her stern, where the triple expansion engine is still mostly exposed, a fantastic testament to her engineering. You’ll spot conger eels in the darker recesses, their heads poking out from pipes and under plates, and the deck plating is often covered in jewel anemones, tiny bursts of colour against the rusted metal. Visibility here can be 15 metres on a good day, but even when it’s closer to seven, the sheer size and shape of the Florence Reynolds still impress. Our favourite is the bow section; it's a little more broken up but often hosts decent schools of pollack hanging above the debris. This dive is definitely for experienced wreck enthusiasts comfortable with deeper profiles and the often-chilly UK waters. It’s a proper expedition, and you’ll leave feeling like you’ve visited a piece of history.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
51.018517, -4.734967
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
53m

Marine Protected Area: Bristol Channel Approaches / Dynesfeydd Mor Hafren

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 FLORENCE REYNOLDS

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 FLORENCE REYNOLDS

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 Florence Reynolds dive site?
The Florence Reynolds dive site is a deep wreck dive, with a typical depth of 53 meters. This depth makes it an exciting challenge for experienced divers. It's important to be adequately trained for such deep explorations.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at Florence Reynolds?
The primary underwater feature at the Florence Reynolds dive site is the fascinating wreck of a steam ship vessel. This ship, measuring 46.4m x 7.4m, sank in 1943 and offers a unique historical exploration. While specific marine life isn't detailed, wrecks often become artificial reefs, attracting various forms of marine life over time.
How difficult is the Florence Reynolds dive site, and is it suitable for beginner divers?
The Florence Reynolds dive site is classified as having an intermediate difficulty. Due to its significant depth of 53 meters and the nature of wreck diving, it is not suitable for beginner divers. Divers should possess appropriate certifications and experience for deep wreck exploration.
What is the best time of year or season to dive at Florence Reynolds for optimal conditions?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year or season to dive at the Florence Reynolds for optimal conditions. For general guidance on planning your dive trips and understanding seasonal variations, you may consult our When to Dive resource.
Are there any specific diving certifications required to dive at the Florence Reynolds site?
While the data doesn't explicitly list required certifications, given that the Florence Reynolds is an intermediate-difficulty wreck dive at 53 meters, advanced or deep diving certifications are highly recommended. Divers should ensure they have the necessary training and experience for safe deep wreck exploration.
What are the typical currents and water conditions like at the Florence Reynolds dive site?
The provided data does not include specific information regarding the typical currents or water conditions at the Florence Reynolds dive site. Divers planning a trip to Cornwall & Devon should consult local dive operators for up-to-date conditions and forecasts.