GALLIA
Protected Area
West of Wight-Barfleur
Why dive here
With 176+ marine species recorded in the area - including blue sharks, dolphins, dwarf minke whales, humpback whales and ocean sunfish (mola mola) - GALLIA offers some of Cornwall & Devon's richest wreck diving. Water ranges 10-18°C, warmest July, August, September.
The Gallia, a substantial steamship resting at 60 metres, is a serious dive for experienced wreck enthusiasts. This isn't a quick dip; it's a deep, dark exploration that really rewards proper planning. We love how intact she feels despite her age, sunk by a U-boat in 1917. Dropping down, you feel the cold embrace of the Atlantic, and then she emerges, a hulking shadow taking shape. The sheer scale of the Gallia is what really grabs you. Her 91-metre length means there's always more to see, even on multiple dives. We’d suggest focusing on the bow or stern on your first visit, maybe a careful penetration into one of the cargo holds if you’re properly trained and equipped. Look out for the resident conger eels, some of the biggest we’ve ever seen, peering out of every dark recess. Jewel anemones speckle the metalwork with bursts of colour, and we’ve often seen dogfish resting on the deck plates. This is a dive for technical divers who appreciate historical context and the profound silence of the deep. It’s challenging, yes, but immensely satisfying.
Typical GALLIA Dive Profile
Illustrative profile based on site depth and type. Actual dive profiles vary - always follow your dive computer and training.
Safety Notes
Maximum depth 60m exceeds recreational limits (40m). Technical diving certification and equipment required.
Wreck site - avoid penetration without wreck diving certification. Watch for sharp metal and entanglement hazards.
Always perform a 3-minute safety stop at 5m before surfacing.
Reviews for GALLIA
Conditions
Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for GALLIA
GALLIA Ocean Conditions
Monthly averages for GALLIA, sourced from Open-Meteo marine data - nearest station: Open-Meteo marine grid (50.44, -2.73) (3km away)
October Averages
Sea Temperature
17°C
62°F · Range: 15.1–17.5°C
Air Temperature
13°C
56°F
Wind Speed
8.14 m/s
15.8 knots
Atmospheric Pressure
1011 hPa
Based on 4 years of monitoring data · Data sources: Open-Meteo marine data
Plan & book
Ways to dive Cornwall & Devon, from day trips to liveaboards.
Day trips & courses
via GetYourGuideGuided dives, courses and snorkel trips with instant booking.
Find dive trips in Cornwall & DevonPlaces to stay
via Booking.comHotels and dive resorts near Cornwall & Devon.
Search stays in Cornwall & DevonDive insurance
Most travel insurance excludes or limits scuba. Check what you need before you go.
Dive insurance explainedPartner links: we may earn a commission if you book, at no extra cost to you. How we make money
Where to Stay near GALLIA
Prices from Booking.com. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
