GEFION - Cornwall & Devon

The *Gefion* is one of our favourite wreck dives in Cornwall, a genuine standout. This steamship met its end in 1917, now resting upright at 33 metres, her stern nicely intact. You’ll fin down, feeling the colder thermocline, then suddenly the dark shape emerges, huge and imposing. The bow section is a bit more broken up, but the midships, with its two big boilers and the triple-expansion engine, offers some fantastic penetration for suitably trained divers. We’ve seen some hefty conger eels here, tucked deep inside the machinery, their heads peering out. The structure itself is just covered in anemones and dead man's fingers, a riot of colour against the dim light, especially when a torch beam hits it just right. It’s a dive that rewards careful exploration, not just a quick swim-over. We’d suggest a slack water dive for the best experience, as the currents can pick up and make finning around the deeper sections quite challenging.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.501583, -3.254450
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
33m

Marine Protected Area: Lyme Bay and Torbay

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 GEFION

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 GEFION

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 is the maximum depth of the SS Gefion dive site?
The maximum depth of the SS Gefion dive site is 33 meters. This makes it an accessible wreck for divers with appropriate training and experience in deeper profiles.
What can divers expect to see when exploring the SS Gefion wreck?
Divers exploring the SS Gefion wreck can expect to see the remains of a steam ship vessel, which was built in 1914 and sunk in 1917. The wreck features two boilers and a triple expansion engine, offering fascinating insights into its maritime history. With dimensions of 68.9m x 11.3m, it provides an extensive area for exploration.
How difficult is the SS Gefion wreck dive, and is it suitable for advanced recreational divers?
The SS Gefion wreck dive is classified as intermediate difficulty. This makes it suitable for advanced recreational divers who have experience with wreck diving and deeper profiles. Divers should ensure they have the necessary certifications and equipment for this type of dive.
What is the best time of year to dive the SS Gefion wreck for optimal conditions?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year to dive the SS Gefion wreck for optimal conditions. For general guidance on seasonal diving, you might consult our When to Dive section. It is always recommended to check local conditions with a dive operator in Cornwall & Devon before planning your trip.
What scuba diving certifications are required to dive the SS Gefion wreck?
While specific certifications are not explicitly listed, given the SS Gefion wreck's intermediate difficulty and 33-meter depth, divers should possess advanced open water certification or equivalent. Specialized wreck diving certifications are highly recommended for safe and enjoyable exploration of such sites. Always dive within your training and experience limits.
What are the typical current and visibility conditions at the SS Gefion dive site?
The provided data does not include specific information regarding the typical current and visibility conditions at the SS Gefion dive site. Divers planning to visit this wreck in Cornwall & Devon should consult local dive centers for up-to-date reports on environmental conditions. This will help ensure a safe and enjoyable dive experience.