HMS BENTON CASTLE - Cornwall & Devon

The HMS BENTON CASTLE sits deep, a proper century-old wreck off the Devon coast. She was a trawler, requisitioned for patrol during WWI, and she sank in 1916. We love these older wrecks; they tell a story, even if it's just in the way the metal has buckled and twisted over time. Dropping down, the first thing that hits you is the sheer scale of the fishing nets draped across her. They’re a real hazard, so decent buoyancy and a knife are non-negotiable here. We usually find conger eels tucked into every dark corner, and the light filtering down through the green water gives the whole scene a moody, ethereal feel. Her boiler is still largely intact, a big, imposing cylinder that’s become home to a riot of plumose anemones. It’s a dive for those comfortable at depth, with good cold-water gear, and a genuine interest in maritime history. This isn't a casual splash; it's a deep exploration of a piece of the past, now very much a part of the seabed.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.309067, -3.528750
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
36m

Marine Protected Area: Slapton Ley

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 HMS BENTON CASTLE

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 HMS BENTON CASTLE

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 depth of the HMS Benton Castle dive site?
The HMS Benton Castle dive site has a maximum depth of 36 meters. This makes it a suitable dive for those with appropriate deep diving experience and training.
What marine life and wreck features can divers expect to see on the HMS Benton Castle?
Divers exploring the HMS Benton Castle can expect to see the remains of a 39.3m x 7.2m trawler vessel, originally built in 1914 and sunk in 1916. Notable features include its single boiler and triple expansion engine of 85NHP. While specific marine life details are not provided, wrecks often become artificial reefs, attracting various species over time.
How challenging is the HMS Benton Castle as a dive site, and what level of diver is it suitable for?
The HMS Benton Castle is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive site. It is also noted as a "Dangerous wreck," indicating that divers should approach it with caution and appropriate training. This site is best suited for divers who have experience with wreck diving and deeper profiles.
What is the best time of year or tidal condition to dive the HMS Benton Castle for optimal visibility?
Unfortunately, the provided data does not specify the best time of year or optimal tidal conditions for diving the HMS Benton Castle to achieve optimal visibility. For general guidance on dive planning, you might consult our When to Dive section.
What diving certifications are required or recommended to dive the HMS Benton Castle?
Given the HMS Benton Castle's depth of 36 meters, its classification as an intermediate difficulty wreck, and its "Dangerous wreck" status, it is highly recommended that divers hold advanced certifications such as PADI Advanced Open Water Diver or equivalent, along with specialized wreck diving and deep diving certifications. These certifications ensure divers have the necessary skills and experience to safely explore such a site.
What are the typical current conditions and visibility like at the HMS Benton Castle dive site?
The provided data for the HMS Benton Castle dive site does not include specific details regarding typical current conditions or visibility. Divers planning a trip to Cornwall & Devon should consult local dive operators for up-to-date information on these conditions.