GOLDFINGER - Cornwall & Devon

Goldfinger isn't for the faint of heart, but if you’ve got the experience and the gas, she’s a proper dive. Lying deep at 49m, this 1898 steamship foundered off Godrevy Island in 1908, a classic Cornish wreck. We love the challenge of getting down to her, feeling that cool thermocline bite as you descend into the green. The wreck itself is surprisingly intact for her age and location, a 30-metre steel skeleton lying upright on the seabed. You can often make out the bow and stern, and sometimes even the distinct lines of her propulsion system. What really brings Goldfinger to life for us though, is the sheer density of plumose anemones that coat every available surface. They ripple in the current like a living carpet, a stark white contrast against the dark metal. Ling often lurk in the deeper shadows, and conger eels are frequent residents, peeking out from behind plates of rusted steel. It’s a deep, dark dive, but the sense of history and the vibrant, cold-water life make it absolutely worth the planning. Pick a slack tide and bring good lights; you’ll want to really pick out the details.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.442223, -5.399630
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
49m

Marine Protected Area: Kelsey Head

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 GOLDFINGER

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 GOLDFINGER

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 for diving at the Goldfinger dive site?
The maximum depth for diving at the Goldfinger dive site is 49 meters. This deep wreck dive requires appropriate training and equipment.
What marine life and unique underwater features can divers expect to see at Goldfinger?
The Goldfinger dive site is a fascinating wreck dive, featuring the remains of a steam ship vessel that sank on February 3, 1908. Divers can explore the dimensions of this non-dangerous wreck, measuring 30.5m x 6.3m, which lies 12m north of Godrevy Island, St Ives, Cornwall. While specific marine life is not detailed, wreck sites often attract a variety of local marine species.
How difficult is the Goldfinger dive site, and is it suitable for beginner divers?
The Goldfinger dive site is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive. Due to its depth of 49 meters and the nature of wreck diving, it is not suitable for beginner divers. Divers should possess the necessary experience and certifications for intermediate-level dives.
What is the best time of year or day to dive at Goldfinger for optimal conditions?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year or day to dive at Goldfinger for optimal conditions. For general guidance on planning your dives, you might consult DivePlnr's "When to Dive" section.
Are there any specific diving certifications required to explore the Goldfinger dive site?
While specific certifications are not explicitly listed, given the Goldfinger dive site's intermediate difficulty and maximum depth of 49 meters, advanced diving certifications are certainly required. Divers should be trained and experienced in deep diving and potentially wreck diving specialties to safely explore this site.
What are the typical current strengths and visibility conditions at the Goldfinger dive site?
The provided data does not include information regarding the typical current strengths or visibility conditions at the Goldfinger dive site. Divers planning to visit this wreck site should consult local dive operators for up-to-date conditions before their dive.