HEMSLEY 1 - Cornwall & Devon

The Hemsley 1 isn't your typical pretty reef dive, but we love it for its sheer historical grit. This old tanker, built in 1916, truly feels like a slice of maritime history frozen in time. She ran aground back in '69 on her way to the breakers, so you're seeing the end of her working life, not some dramatic wartime sinking. What you get is a really broken-up wreck, scattered across the seabed, which means plenty of nooks and crannies to poke around in. The hull plates are draped in dead man's fingers and colourful jewel anemones, creating these incredible textured tapestries. Ling often lurk in the deeper sections, and you’ll spot wrasse darting between the twisted metal. We'd suggest going at slack water to avoid any strong currents, as the visibility can be a bit challenging at times, but on a good day, the light filtering through the wreckage is quite something. It’s a dive for those who appreciate the stories ships tell, and don't mind getting up close with some real industrial archaeology.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.523884, -5.030224
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
0m

Marine Protected Area: Trevose Head and Constantine Bay

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 HEMSLEY 1

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 HEMSLEY 1

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 HEMSLEY 1 dive site in Fox Cove, and are there parts visible at low tide?
The HEMSLEY 1 dive site has a listed depth of 0m, indicating it is extremely shallow and likely breaks the surface. As a "Wreck showing any portion of hull or superstructure," parts of the vessel are indeed visible, even at low tide. This makes it an accessible site for various experience levels.
What marine life and wreck remnants, specifically the boiler and bow section, can divers expect to see at the HEMSLEY 1 shipwreck?
While the specific marine life inhabiting the HEMSLEY 1 wreck is not detailed in our current data, divers can generally expect to encounter local species common to Cornwall & Devon waters. Our records describe HEMSLEY 1 as a 67.4m x 10.7m tanker vessel, but do not specifically mention the presence of a boiler or intact bow section. For general marine life information, visit our wildlife database.
How challenging is diving the HEMSLEY 1 shipwreck in Fox Cove, considering it broke up on rocks and is in an exposed area?
Diving the HEMSLEY 1 shipwreck is classified as intermediate difficulty. The vessel ran aground, which can contribute to complex dive conditions. Divers should be prepared for potential challenges associated with a wreck of this nature and ensure they have appropriate equipment and experience.
What is the best time of year or tidal condition to dive the HEMSLEY 1 for optimal visibility and calmer waters?
Our current data for the HEMSLEY 1 dive site does not specify the best time of year or optimal tidal conditions for visibility and calmer waters. Divers are advised to consult local dive operators for up-to-date information on conditions. For general guidance on planning your dives, you can visit our when to dive section.
Are there any specific diving certifications required or recommended to safely explore the HEMSLEY 1 wreck?
While specific certification requirements are not listed for the HEMSLEY 1 wreck, its classification as an intermediate difficulty dive suggests that divers should possess a suitable level of experience and training. It is always recommended to have certifications appropriate for wreck diving and the conditions expected. Always ensure your equipment is suitable for the dive.
What are the typical current and swell conditions at the HEMSLEY 1 dive site in Fox Cove, given its exposure to Atlantic swells?
Our available data for the HEMSLEY 1 dive site does not include specific details regarding typical current and swell conditions. Divers planning to visit this site in Cornwall & Devon should consult local dive centers for the most current environmental information before diving. Always prioritize safety and local expertise when planning your dive.