GALICIA - Cornwall & Devon

Now this is a proper wreck, one of our favourites in the area. The Galicia went down in 1917, and for a ship of its size, 121 metres long, it’s remarkably intact at just 15 metres. You’re not just looking at scattered debris here. We love dropping down onto the huge boilers, they’re still upright and make a fantastic landmark. The bow section is particularly good, often shrouded in schooling bib and pollack, a real spectacle when the light catches them. You’ll want to allow plenty of time to explore the holds, which are surprisingly open. We’ve had some great dives poking around in there, finding conger eels peering out from cracks and plenty of crabs scuttling about. Conditions can be a bit challenging, this is the UK after all, so aim for slack water and a good tide for the best visibility. When it’s clear, you can really appreciate the scale of the Galicia, a genuine piece of history on the seabed. It’s a site for divers who appreciate big, explorable wrecks and aren't afraid of a bit of green water.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.555100, -3.439300
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
15m

Marine Protected Area: Dawlish Warren

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 GALICIA

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 GALICIA

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 kind of marine life and underwater landscapes can I expect to see when scuba diving in Galicia?
When diving the Galicia, you will primarily explore the underwater landscape of a historic steam ship wreck. This 121.9m x 15.2m vessel, sunk in 1917, offers a fascinating artificial reef structure. While specific marine life isn't detailed in the provided data, wrecks typically attract a variety of local species, which you can learn more about in our wildlife database.
What are the typical water depths and visibility conditions for diving in Galicia?
The Galicia wreck is found at a depth of 15 meters, making it a relatively shallow dive. The site is classified as a "Dangerous wreck," indicating its structure and history. While specific visibility conditions are not provided, divers should always check local reports before planning their dive.
Is scuba diving in Galicia suitable for beginners, or are the dive sites more for experienced divers?
Scuba diving at the Galicia wreck is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive. This means it is not typically recommended for absolute beginners. Divers should have some experience and comfort with wreck diving or similar conditions to safely explore this site.
When is the best time of year to go scuba diving in Galicia for optimal conditions?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year for optimal diving conditions at the Galicia wreck. For general guidance on seasonal diving in the Cornwall & Devon area, we recommend consulting our When to Dive section. Always check local weather and sea conditions before planning your trip.
What scuba diving certifications are generally required to dive in Galicia?
Given that the Galicia wreck is rated as an intermediate difficulty dive, a basic Open Water certification might not be sufficient for independent exploration. Divers should ideally possess an Advanced Open Water certification or a specialty in wreck diving to safely navigate this site. Always ensure your certification level matches the dive's demands and that you have appropriate equipment.
How strong are the currents and what are the general water conditions like for diving in Galicia?
The provided data does not specify the strength of currents or general water conditions for diving the Galicia wreck. However, its classification as a "Dangerous wreck" suggests that conditions can be challenging or require caution. It's crucial to consult local dive operators for up-to-date information on currents and sea state before planning your dive.