GIRNIGOE - Cornwall & Devon

The Girnigoe is a deep dive, proper advanced territory, sinking to 58 metres. We’re talking about the remains of a steamship, 42.7 metres long, that went down in 1908. It’s a good one for technical divers looking for a proper challenge off the Portland coast. Dropping down, the visibility here can be… moody. When it’s good though, you start to pick out the silhouette of the old coaster, surprisingly intact for its age and depth. The stern is often our favourite part, with the machinery aft still quite recognisable – a testament to its solid build. We’ve seen conger eels that look like they’ve been residents since the sinking, along with good-sized lobsters tucked into every crevice. Exploring the well deck requires solid buoyancy and a good torch; the old cargo holds are dark, but often reveal schools of pout sheltering from any passing current. This isn't a dive for casual sightseeing; it’s a commitment, a test of skill, and a journey into a piece of maritime history.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.174526, -2.326944
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
58m

Marine Protected Area: West of Wight-Barfleur

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 GIRNIGOE

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 GIRNIGOE

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 are the typical diving depths at the GIRNIGOE dive site?
The GIRNIGOE dive site is a deep wreck dive, with typical depths reaching 58 meters. This makes it suitable for experienced divers comfortable with advanced deep diving profiles in the United Kingdom.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at GIRNIGOE?
Divers at GIRNIGOE can expect to explore the impressive remains of a steam ship vessel, measuring 42.7m x 6.7m. This historical wreck, sunk in 1908, provides a unique underwater feature that often attracts various marine life seeking shelter and foraging opportunities, which you can learn more about in our wildlife database.
How challenging is diving at GIRNIGOE, and what skill level is recommended for this dive site?
Diving at GIRNIGOE is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive. Given its significant depth of 58 meters and status as a wreck dive, it is recommended for divers with advanced certifications and experience in deep diving.
What is the best time of year to dive at GIRNIGOE for optimal conditions and marine encounters?
Specific information regarding the best time of year to dive at GIRNIGOE for optimal conditions and marine encounters is not available in our current data. For general guidance on planning your dives, please visit our when to dive section.
What scuba diving certifications are required or recommended to dive at GIRNIGOE?
Given the 58-meter depth and intermediate difficulty of the GIRNIGOE dive site, advanced certifications such as deep diver specialties are highly recommended. Divers should possess the necessary training and equipment for deep wreck diving to safely explore this site.
What are the typical water temperatures, currents, and visibility conditions like at the GIRNIGOE dive site?
Our current data for the GIRNIGOE dive site does not include specific information on typical water temperatures, currents, or visibility conditions. Divers should consult local dive operators in Cornwall & Devon for up-to-date environmental conditions before planning their dive.