FOREST - Cornwall & Devon

The *Forest* is a deep, dramatic piece of history, and one of our favourite wreck dives in UK waters, provided you’re equipped for it. Lying in 53 metres of water, this 1873 sailing vessel is big, and surprisingly intact considering the collision that sent her down. We love the way she’s settled on the seabed, mast stumps pointing defiantly upwards, giving the impression of a ghostly forest of spars. You'll spend your bottom time exploring the wooden hull, now heavily encrusted with plumose anemones that sway in the gentle surge, like flowers in an eerie garden. Look for the huge anchor chains draped across the deck, and if you’re lucky, you might spot some conger eels peering from dark recesses. This is a dive for experienced wreck enthusiasts and technical divers; the depth means careful planning and execution are essential. The reward is a truly atmospheric dive, a real journey into maritime history. We’d suggest picking a slack tide for the best visibility and a more relaxed exploration.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.267273, -2.501300
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
53m

Marine Protected Area: South of Portland

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 FOREST

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 FOREST

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