FPT IV - Cornwall & Devon

Let's talk about FPT IV, a wreck that always sparks a bit of debate among our team. It’s a barge, sunk back in ‘89 after losing its tow in rough weather near Selsey Bill and then drifting all the way here. For us, it’s not about grand scale or dramatic drop-offs; it’s about the sheer resilience of something discarded finding a new purpose. At a shallow 11 metres, FPT IV is perfect for divers who want to take their time. You can spend a whole no-deco dive just circling, peeking into its nooks and crannies. We particularly love the way the light filters down, illuminating the sturdy ribs of the barge, now completely softened by a blanket of plumose anemones. It’s a beautiful contrast, the rough steel against their delicate frills. Keep an eye out for conger eels too; they’ve made these spaces their own. We often spot several tucked away, their heads peering out like grumpy landlords. The site truly shines on a calm, sunny day when visibility extends, letting you appreciate the wreck’s full outline and the life it supports. It’s not a thrill ride, but a serene exploration of a forgotten piece of history, transformed.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.732655, -0.897367
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
11m

Marine Protected Area: Bracklesham Bay

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 FPT IV

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 FPT IV

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