wreck

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FRANZISKA

The Franziska, a steamship sunk in 1889 after a run-in with the barque ‘Honor’, sits deep at 55 metres off the Cornish coast. It's a proper technical dive, no two ways about it, but for those with the training, it’s a rewarding one. We love the eerie stillness down there; the light struggles to reach this depth, so it’s all about your torch beam picking out details. You'll find a well-preserved wreck, considering its age, with the hull largely intact and much of the superstructure still recognisable. Our favourite is exploring the bow section, where thick layers of plumose anemones cling to the metalwork, their feathery tentacles swaying gently in the subtle surge. We've often spotted conger eels tucked into the darker recesses, their heads poking out with a wary glance. Visibility here can be surprisingly good on a calm day, but always be prepared for currents, as they can pick up quickly. It's a dive that demands respect, but it gives back a real sense of history.