GAP
Protected Area
The Manacles
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) - GAP offers some of Cornwall & Devon's richest wreck diving. Water ranges 10-18°C, warmest July, August, September.
The wreck of the steamship GAP, sunk in 1928, sits in a shallow 5 metres off the Cornwall and Devon coast. What’s left of her 85.5-metre length is well-broken, scattered across a rocky seabed, but there's still plenty to explore. We’ve found her twisted metal plates and some machinery, now heavily encrusted and providing shelter for crabs and wrasse. It’s a great spot for an easy dive, especially on a calm day, and a good reminder of the coast's maritime history. If you're into poking around historical remains without the deep dive fuss, this one’s for you.
Typical GAP Dive Profile
Illustrative profile based on site depth and type. Actual dive profiles vary - always follow your dive computer and training.
Safety Notes
Wreck site - avoid penetration without wreck diving certification. Watch for sharp metal and entanglement hazards.
Nearest Dive Centres to GAP
Dive shops near GAP
Porthkerris Divers
DiveUK
Seaways Diving
Karleyth Diving Ltd.
Viewpoint Diving Centre
Wavecrest Scuba
Reviews for GAP
Conditions
Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for GAP
GAP Ocean Conditions
Monthly averages for GAP, 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 GAP
Prices from Booking.com. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.