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Log This Dive

HMS Dunraven

The HMS Dunraven isn’t for the faint of heart, or for those who prefer their wrecks in clear, calm waters. But for the right diver, she’s absolutely brilliant. This Q-ship, sunk in 1917 after a battle with a German U-boat, lies in some pretty exposed waters off Cornwall. When the conditions line up, which they do, it's worth the effort. We love the sheer scale of the Dunraven. She’s a big girl, broken but still impressively intact in places. You'll descend into that typical greenish British water, the visibility often settling around 8-10 metres, sometimes less, but that just adds to the atmosphere. Torches are essential to pick out the details in the gloom. Expect to see cod and pollack hanging around the deeper sections, often darting into the wreckage as you approach. The steel plates are encrusted with jewel anemones and dead man’s fingers, splashes of orange and white in the muted light. Our favourite part is navigating through some of the more open hold sections – it feels properly adventurous, but always with plenty of light overhead. This isn’t a penetration dive for beginners, but there are ample opportunities to explore the superstructure and deck areas. It’s a dive that rewards repeat visits, especially as the currents can sometimes dictate which parts you can comfortably explore.