HMS ELEANOR (PROBABLY) - Cornwall & Devon

The HMS Eleanor (probably) isn’t just a dive, it’s a bit of an archaeological mystery. We love how the ‘probably’ in the name perfectly captures the spirit of diving these historical wrecks off Cornwall. Dropping down to 36 metres, you hit the bow first, often pushing through a hazy green layer where the light struggles to penetrate. But then the wreck emerges, quite dramatically. This isn’t a pick-apart-the-pieces kind of wreck. The Eleanor, a bulk carrier sunk in 1918, lies largely intact, though time and tide have certainly taken their toll. You can easily identify the two massive boilers, often swathed in plumose anemones, and the triple-expansion engine is still quite recognisable. Our favourite bits are always the cargo holds; they’re often packed with shoals of bib and pouting, swirling like liquid silver as you pass. Keep an eye out for resident conger eels tucked into any dark crevice. The site suits experienced divers comfortable with deeper, often low-visibility conditions. It’s a dive for those who appreciate history and don’t mind a bit of a treasure hunt to piece together the ship’s story.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.501860, -1.673778
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
36m

Marine Protected Area: Albert Field

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 ELEANOR (PROBABLY)

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 ELEANOR (PROBABLY)

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 HMS Eleanor (probably) dive site?
The maximum depth of the HMS Eleanor (probably) dive site is 36 meters. This makes it a deeper wreck dive, suitable for divers with appropriate training and experience.
What kind of marine life and wreck features can divers expect to see on the HMS Eleanor (probably)?
The HMS Eleanor (probably) is a fascinating bulk carrier vessel, measuring 82.3m x 11m, which sank in 1918. Divers can explore its significant wreck features, including two boilers, a triple expansion engine, and a single shaft. While specific marine life isn't detailed, wrecks like this often become artificial reefs, attracting various local species, which you can learn more about in our wildlife database.
How challenging is diving the HMS Eleanor (probably) wreck, and what skill level is recommended?
Diving the HMS Eleanor (probably) is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive. With a maximum depth of 36 meters and its classification as a dangerous wreck, it is recommended for divers who have experience with deeper wreck diving and appropriate certifications. Always prioritize safety and dive within your training limits.
What is the best time of year to dive the HMS Eleanor (probably) for optimal conditions?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year for optimal diving conditions at the HMS Eleanor (probably) wreck. For general guidance on seasonal diving in the United Kingdom, we recommend consulting our When to Dive section. Always check local weather and sea conditions before planning your dive.
What scuba diving certifications are required or highly recommended to dive the HMS Eleanor (probably)?
Given the HMS Eleanor (probably) is an intermediate difficulty dive with a maximum depth of 36 meters and classified as a dangerous wreck, advanced open water certification and specialized wreck diving training are highly recommended. Divers should be comfortable with deeper dives and potential overhead environments. Always ensure your certifications match the dive's demands.
What are the typical current conditions and visibility like at the HMS Eleanor (probably) dive site?
The provided data does not include specific information regarding typical current conditions or visibility at the HMS Eleanor (probably) dive site. As with any wreck dive in the Cornwall & Devon area, conditions can vary, so it's crucial to consult local dive operators for up-to-date reports. Always plan your dive according to prevailing conditions.