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

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the maximum depth for diving at the Forest dive site in Bonaire?
The Forest dive site is located in Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, not Bonaire. Divers exploring this fascinating wreck can expect a maximum depth of 53 meters. This deep dive offers a unique opportunity to explore a historical sailing vessel.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at the Forest dive site?
The primary underwater feature at the Forest dive site is the wreck of a historical sailing vessel. This impressive wreck, built in 1873, measures 61.6m x 12.5m and sank in 1877. While specific marine life is not detailed in the provided information, wrecks often attract a variety of local species, which divers can learn more about in our wildlife database.
How challenging is the Forest dive site for scuba divers?
The Forest dive site is classified as having an intermediate difficulty level. Given its maximum depth of 53 meters, divers should possess appropriate training and experience for deep wreck diving. It's a non-dangerous wreck, but the depth itself presents a challenge.
What are the best conditions or times of year to dive at the Forest dive site?
Information regarding the best conditions or specific times of year to dive at the Forest dive site is not available in the provided data. For general guidance on seasonal diving, you might consult our when-to-dive section.
What scuba diving certifications are recommended or required for diving at the Forest site?
Given the Forest dive site's maximum depth of 53 meters and its intermediate difficulty, advanced certifications such as Deep Diver and Wreck Diver specialties are highly recommended. These certifications ensure divers have the necessary skills and knowledge to safely explore such a deep wreck.
What are the typical current and visibility conditions at the Forest dive site?
Details regarding the typical current and visibility conditions at the Forest dive site are not provided in the available data. Divers should always check local conditions with a dive operator before planning their dive.