GLOCLIFFE - Cornwall & Devon

The Glocliffe is a big ship, well broken up, but still a fantastic dive when conditions allow. We love how the hull plates have twisted and curled, creating these amazing overhangs and crevices that are just packed with marine life. You’ll spend a good hour exploring the two massive boilers, which stand proud, almost like a pair of sentinels, covered in plumose anemones and dead man’s fingers. Look closely in the nooks, and you’ll often spot conger eels – some of them huge – peering out from the darkness. Our favourite time to dive the Glocliffe is on a slack tide, with a bit of sunshine filtering down, really bringing out the vibrant colours of the anemones. It sits deep, around 39 metres, so this is one for experienced wreck divers comfortable with deco. You’re not going to see pristine cabins, but the sheer scale of the wreckage and the way nature has reclaimed it makes for a truly captivating dive.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.451866, -3.289217
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
39m

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 GLOCLIFFE

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 GLOCLIFFE

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 Glocliffe dive site and the top of the wreck?
The maximum depth of the Glocliffe dive site is 39m. While the exact depth to the top of the wreck is not specified in our current data, divers should be prepared for a dive to this depth.
What kind of marine life and wreck features can divers expect to see on the Glocliffe?
Divers exploring the Glocliffe wreck can expect to see the remains of a substantial steam ship vessel, measuring 87.5m x 13.4m. Notable features include two boilers, a triple expansion engine, and a single shaft, all part of its original machinery by NE MAR. Specific marine life details for this site are not available in our current database.
How challenging is the Glocliffe wreck dive, and what level of diving experience is recommended?
The Glocliffe wreck dive is classified as intermediate difficulty and is noted as a dangerous wreck. This suggests that divers should possess a good level of experience, including proficiency in wreck diving techniques and managing potential hazards. It's recommended that divers have advanced certifications and experience with deeper dives.
What are the optimal tidal conditions and time of year for diving the Glocliffe wreck for the best visibility?
Our current data for the Glocliffe dive site does not specify optimal tidal conditions or the best time of year for visibility. For general guidance on planning your dive, please refer to our When to Dive section.
What scuba diving certifications are required or highly recommended to dive the Glocliffe?
Given the Glocliffe's maximum depth of 39m and its classification as an intermediate and dangerous wreck, advanced open water certification is highly recommended as a minimum. Additionally, specialized training such as a Wreck Diver certification would be extremely beneficial for safely navigating and exploring this site.
What are the typical currents and visibility conditions like at the Glocliffe dive site?
Information regarding the typical currents and visibility conditions at the Glocliffe dive site is not provided in our current database. Divers should always consult local dive operators for up-to-date conditions before planning their dive.