FORTH - Cornwall & Devon

The *Forth* wreck, off the coast of Cornwall, is a real piece of history. This iron-hulled steamship went down in 1906, and while she's broken up quite a bit over the years, there's still plenty to explore across her 57-metre length. We’ve found the stern section particularly interesting, with some of the machinery still recognisable. It’s a shallow dive, hitting a maximum of 12 metres, so bottom time isn't an issue. We’d say it’s a good spot for those who enjoy a rummage through history without the need for deep diving skills, and you’ll often spot crabs tucked into the wreckage and schools of bib darting through the remains. Just be mindful of the currents; they can pick up, so check the tides before you head out.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
49.498650, -2.437450
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
12m

Marine Protected Area: Gouliot Caves and Headland, Sark

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 FORTH

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 FORTH

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 are the typical depths for diving the wrecks and reefs in the Firth of Forth?
Our data for the wreck site named FORTH, located in Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, indicates a depth of 12m. However, we do not have specific information regarding typical depths for diving wrecks and reefs within the Firth of Forth itself. The FORTH wreck is classified as an intermediate dive at this depth.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see when diving in the Firth of Forth?
While we lack specific marine life data for the Firth of Forth, the wreck site named FORTH in Cornwall & Devon offers interesting underwater features. Divers can explore the remains of this 57.3m x 8.3m iron steamship, built in 1862, which includes its compound expansion engine and other machinery. This dangerous wreck provides a fascinating historical dive.
How challenging is diving in the Firth of Forth, considering factors like visibility and water temperature?
For the specific wreck site FORTH in Cornwall & Devon, the diving difficulty is classified as intermediate. However, our current data does not provide specific details on visibility or water temperature for this site, nor for the broader Firth of Forth region. Divers should always check local conditions before planning a dive.
What is the best time of year and tidal conditions for diving in the Firth of Forth?
Our current data for the FORTH wreck in Cornwall & Devon does not specify the best time of year or optimal tidal conditions for diving. For general guidance on planning your dives, you can visit our When to Dive section. Always consult local dive operators for up-to-date information on conditions in the Firth of Forth.
What scuba diving certifications are recommended or required for diving in the Firth of Forth, especially for wreck dives?
While specific certification requirements for the Firth of Forth are not detailed in our data, the FORTH wreck in Cornwall & Devon is classified as an intermediate dive. For intermediate wreck dives, it is generally recommended to have advanced open water certification and potentially a specialty in wreck diving. Always check with local dive centers for their specific requirements for diving in the United Kingdom.
What are the typical current strengths and water conditions divers should be aware of when planning a dive in the Firth of Forth?
Our data for the FORTH wreck in Cornwall & Devon does not include details on typical current strengths or specific water conditions. It is crucial for divers to obtain current and weather forecasts from local sources or dive operators before planning any dive in the Cornwall & Devon area or the Firth of Forth. Always prioritize safety and local knowledge.