GERARDA - Cornwall & Devon

The Gerarda is one of those wrecks we keep coming back to, and it’s always a good call. Lying upright at 26 metres, she’s a proper steamship, still very much a ship rather than a debris field. You drop down onto the bow, often with pollock darting into view, and from there it’s a clear swim along the deck. Her single boiler is a real focal point, now a magnet for conger eels – we’ve seen some absolute monsters tucked away in there. We love the engine room for its sense of scale, and the way the light filters down through the superstructure, catching the clouds of jewel anemones that have colonised the plates. The visibility here can be superb on a slack tide, letting you appreciate the sheer length of the wreck, all 78 metres of her. Expect to see dogfish lurking in the shadows and plenty of wrasse picking their way through the growth. Our top tip? Get there on a neap tide for the calmest conditions; it really makes a difference.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.515366, -0.933150
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
26m

Marine Protected Area: Utopia

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 GERARDA

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 GERARDA

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 typical depth range for diving at the Gerardia Savaglia dive site?
The Gerarda dive site has a typical depth of 26 meters. This makes it an accessible wreck dive for those with appropriate training and experience.
What kind of marine life and unique underwater features can divers expect to see at Gerardia Savaglia?
At the Gerarda dive site, divers can explore the impressive remains of a steam ship vessel, measuring 78.3m x 10.5m. While specific marine life is not detailed in our records, wrecks like the Gerarda often become vibrant artificial reefs, attracting a variety of local species. You can learn more about common marine life in the region in our wildlife database.
How difficult is the Gerardia Savaglia dive site, and is it suitable for beginner divers?
The Gerarda dive site is classified as intermediate difficulty. Due to its depth and the nature of wreck diving, it is generally not suitable for beginner divers. Divers should possess the necessary experience and certifications for intermediate-level wreck exploration.
What is the best time of year to dive at Gerardia Savaglia for optimal conditions and visibility?
Information regarding the best time of year for optimal conditions and visibility at the Gerarda dive site is not available in our current data. We recommend consulting local dive operators for up-to-date seasonal conditions. For general guidance on dive planning, you can visit our when to dive section.
What diving certifications are required to explore the deeper sections of the Gerardia Savaglia dive site?
To explore the Gerarda dive site, with its depth of 26 meters and intermediate difficulty, divers would typically need at least an Advanced Open Water certification or equivalent. This ensures divers have the necessary training for deeper dives and potential wreck exploration. Always ensure you have the appropriate equipment and training for the conditions.
What are the typical current conditions and water temperatures at the Gerardia Savaglia dive site?
Our current data does not specify the typical current conditions or water temperatures for the Gerarda dive site. Divers planning a trip should consult local dive centers or guides for the most accurate and real-time environmental information. Always be prepared for varying conditions when diving in the Cornwall & Devon region.