HMS BUCCANEER - Cornwall & Devon

The HMS Buccaneer is one of those wrecks we keep coming back to. Lying at 43 metres, she’s a proper expedition, a serious dive for experienced wreck heads, but absolutely worth the planning. This former tug, accidentally sunk by shellfire in 1946, sits upright and largely intact. As you drop onto her, the sheer scale becomes apparent; 50 metres of steel, dark against the sometimes murky green water that’s so typical of UK diving. We love exploring her holds, dark caverns where the light just barely penetrates, and the way the superstructure still looms over the seabed. The triple expansion engine is a particular highlight, a tangle of pipes and machinery that’s surprisingly well preserved. We’ve often found conger eels here, huge, thick bodies wedged into the tightest spaces, watching you with an almost bored indifference. Look out for the nudibranchs too; colourful splashes against the rust, particularly on the more exposed sections. Visibility can be a bit of a lottery, as it often is in this part of the world, so pick your day carefully. Slack water is essential to truly appreciate the Buccaneer without battling the currents.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.489532, -2.696167
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
43m

Marine Protected Area: South of Portland

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 BUCCANEER

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 BUCCANEER

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 Buccaneer wreck dive?
The HMS Buccaneer wreck dive reaches a depth of 43 meters. This makes it a dive suitable for experienced divers comfortable with deeper excursions.
What can divers expect to see when exploring the HMS Buccaneer wreck?
Divers exploring the HMS Buccaneer will encounter the remains of a tug vessel, built in 1937 and sunk in 1946. This 50.3m x 9.8m wreck features a triple expansion engine, single shaft, and even a 1 x 3 inch gun. It's classified as a non-dangerous wreck, offering an intriguing historical exploration.
How difficult is the HMS Buccaneer dive, and what level of experience is recommended?
The HMS Buccaneer dive is classified as intermediate difficulty. Divers should have a good level of experience and be comfortable with deeper wreck diving to safely explore this site.
What is the best time of year or tidal condition to dive the HMS Buccaneer?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year or tidal conditions for diving the HMS Buccaneer. For optimal planning, it is always recommended to consult local dive operators or resources like DivePlnr's When to Dive section for up-to-date information.
What diving certifications are required or highly recommended for diving the HMS Buccaneer?
Given the HMS Buccaneer's depth of 43 meters and intermediate difficulty, certifications such as Advanced Open Water Diver and Wreck Diver are highly recommended. These certifications ensure divers have the necessary training and experience for deeper wreck explorations.
What are the typical current and visibility conditions at the HMS Buccaneer dive site?
The provided data does not include specific information regarding the typical current and visibility conditions at the HMS Buccaneer dive site. Divers should always check with local dive centers or current reports before planning their dive to ensure safe and enjoyable conditions.