HEATHER - Cornwall & Devon

The Heather, sitting in a shallow seven metres, is exactly the kind of dive we love to pootle around on a sunny afternoon. She’s a small fishing vessel, just over nine metres long, that went down back in ‘77. You’ll find her upright and largely intact, a real testament to her sturdy build. What makes the Heather a standout for us isn't her size or depth, but the sheer density of life that has claimed her. We’re talking about every surface completely encrusted, a patchwork quilt of jewel anemones, hydroids, and sponges in incredible oranges and purples. Peer into the wheelhouse, and you might spot a lobster or two, antennae twitching from the shadows. Conger eels are often tucked away in the more sheltered nooks, their heads peeking out with that characteristic grumpy stare. It’s a perfect spot for an extended bottom time, ideal for photographers wanting to get up close with macro subjects, or for newer divers looking to build confidence on a true wreck without the intimidation of depth or strong currents. We’d suggest a dive around slack water for the clearest views, and definitely bring a torch to really make those colours pop. She’s not a deep dive, but the life here absolutely rewards a slow, careful exploration.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.716690, -1.078957
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
7m

Marine Protected Area: St Helen's Duver & Priory Wood

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 HEATHER

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 HEATHER

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