GRO - Cornwall & Devon

The GRO, a steamship that went down in 1917, now rests at 60 metres, making it a dive for experienced wreck enthusiasts. This 94.5-metre vessel lies relatively intact, with two large boilers still prominent. We’ve found conger eels tucked into the machinery and the occasional squat lobster clinging to the superstructure. Exploring the engine room area offers a good sense of the ship’s scale. Visibility can be a bit hit-or-miss with the UK weather, so picking your day carefully makes all the difference.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.205300, -3.534250
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
60m

Marine Protected Area: Skerries Bank and Surrounds

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 GRO

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 GRO

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 diving depth at Gordon Rocks?
The typical diving depth at the GRO wreck site is 60 meters. This deep dive offers an exploration of a historic steamship vessel, originally built in 1895. It provides a unique opportunity to explore a significant piece of maritime history.
What kind of marine life can I expect to see when diving Gordon Rocks?
The provided data for the GRO wreck site does not specify the marine life you can expect to encounter. However, wreck dives in the Cornwall & Devon region often attract various species. You can learn more about general marine life in the area by consulting our wildlife database.
How difficult is diving at Gordon Rocks, and is it suitable for beginners?
Diving at the GRO wreck site is classified as intermediate difficulty. Due to its significant depth of 60 meters and the nature of a wreck dive, it is not typically suitable for beginners. Divers should possess appropriate experience and certifications for deep and wreck diving.
What is the best time of year to dive Gordon Rocks for optimal conditions?
The available data for the GRO wreck site does not specify the best time of year for optimal diving conditions. For general guidance on seasonal diving and planning your trip to the United Kingdom, please consult our When to Dive section.
What certifications and experience are required to dive at Gordon Rocks?
Given the intermediate difficulty and a depth of 60 meters at the GRO wreck site, divers will need advanced certifications and experience in deep and wreck diving. This ensures you are adequately prepared for the challenges of exploring this historic steamship vessel, which was sunk in 1917.
What are the typical current and water conditions like at Gordon Rocks?
The provided data for the GRO wreck site does not detail the typical current or water conditions. Divers should always check local conditions and forecasts before planning a dive in the Cornwall & Devon area. Being prepared for varying conditions is crucial for a safe and enjoyable dive.