HIGHGATE (POSSIBLY) - Cornwall & Devon

The Highgate is a proper old-school wreck dive, a steamship that went down in 1890, off the coast of Cornwall. At 48 metres, it’s certainly for the experienced among us, a proper technical challenge. We love the way she sits on the seabed, remarkably intact for her age, a true time capsule. The twin boilers are still prominent, standing proud from the main structure, and you can still trace the lines of her iron hull. There's a real sense of history dropping onto the Highgate. The visibility, when it’s good, lets you see a lot of her in one go, a dark shape emerging from the green. We’ve found conger eels tucked into the darker nooks and crannies, and dead man's fingers coral bloom across the metalwork, a soft orange against the rust. If you've got the skills and the gas, the Highgate offers a deep, rewarding dive into maritime history, a quiet, atmospheric exploration of a forgotten ship.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
51.476566, -4.938032
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
48m

Marine Protected Area: Castlemartin Coast

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 HIGHGATE (POSSIBLY)

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 HIGHGATE (POSSIBLY)

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 depth range for diving at Highgate (possibly) and are there any particularly deep sections to be aware of?
The Highgate (possibly) dive site has a reported depth of 48 meters. This makes it a deep dive, suitable for divers with appropriate training and experience. Divers should be aware that the entire site is at this significant depth.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at the Highgate (possibly) dive site?
The Highgate (possibly) is a fascinating wreck dive, featuring the remains of an iron steam ship built in 1882. Divers can explore its structure, including two boilers, a compound engine, and a single shaft, across its 74.1m x 10.4m dimensions. While specific marine life isn't detailed, wrecks often attract various species, and you can learn more about general marine life in the region on our wildlife database.
How difficult is diving at Highgate (possibly), and is it suitable for beginner or advanced divers?
Diving at the Highgate (possibly) is classified as intermediate difficulty. Given its depth of 48 meters, it is not suitable for beginner divers. This site is best suited for experienced divers who are comfortable with deep diving and wreck exploration.
What is the best time of year or season to dive at Highgate (possibly) for optimal conditions and marine encounters?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year or season to dive at Highgate (possibly) for optimal conditions or marine encounters. For general guidance on diving in the Cornwall & Devon area, you might consult our when to dive section.
Are there any specific certifications required to dive at Highgate (possibly), beyond standard Open Water?
Given the intermediate difficulty and a depth of 48 meters, divers will require certifications beyond standard Open Water. Typically, Advanced Open Water and Deep Diver certifications are recommended, along with experience in wreck diving. Always ensure you have the appropriate training and equipment for such depths.
What are the typical currents and water conditions like at Highgate (possibly), and how do they affect diving?
The provided data does not include specific information on typical currents or water conditions at the Highgate (possibly) dive site. Divers planning to visit this wreck site should consult local dive operators for the most up-to-date conditions before their dive.