HMS FISGARD II - Cornwall & Devon

The HMS Fisgard II, originally the ironclad battleship Invincible, rests at 46 metres and offers a proper deep wreck dive. We love the sheer scale of it, an 85-metre hull that demands multiple visits to properly appreciate. Dropping down, you feel the history, knowing this vessel was once a formidable warship before its transformation into a training ship and eventual sinking in 1914 while under tow. Visually, it's a spectacle of metal and marine growth. Plumose anemones blanket the structure in a furry white carpet, especially in the darker, less exposed sections. Schools of pout and juvenile pollack dart through the skeletal remains of the deck, and we've often spotted hefty conger eels peering from behind collapsed bulkheads – they love the sheltered nooks here. On a clear day, with decent visibility, the sheer length of the wreck materialises out of the green, a truly impressive sight. This site really suits experienced wreck divers comfortable with depth and colder UK waters. We’d suggest Nitrox for extended bottom time, and definitely a good torch to pick out the details. The current can be brisk, so slack water is your friend here.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.417260, -2.451310
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
46m

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 FISGARD II

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 FISGARD II

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 FISGARD II dive site?
The HMS FISGARD II dive site reaches a maximum depth of 46 meters. This depth makes it an exciting exploration for divers with appropriate training and experience in deeper environments.
What can divers expect to see when exploring the HMS FISGARD II wreck?
Divers exploring the HMS FISGARD II can expect to encounter a significant wreck, originally an iron-clad battleship named Invincible. This training vessel, measuring 85.3m x 16.5m, offers a fascinating glimpse into maritime history. As a non-dangerous wreck, it provides an intriguing structure to explore.
How challenging is the HMS FISGARD II as a dive site, and what factors contribute to its difficulty?
The HMS FISGARD II is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive site. Its maximum depth of 46 meters is the primary factor contributing to this rating, requiring divers to have advanced training and experience for safe exploration.
What is the best time of year or optimal weather conditions for diving the HMS FISGARD II?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year or optimal weather conditions for diving the HMS FISGARD II. For up-to-date information on local conditions, it's always best to consult with local dive operators in Cornwall & Devon.
What diving certifications are required to safely dive the HMS FISGARD II wreck?
Given the HMS FISGARD II's maximum depth of 46 meters and intermediate difficulty rating, divers should possess advanced open water certification or equivalent. This ensures they have the necessary skills and experience for deeper wreck diving.
What are the typical currents and sea conditions divers might encounter at the HMS FISGARD II dive site?
The provided data does not include specific details regarding typical currents or sea conditions at the HMS FISGARD II dive site. Divers planning to visit should consult local dive centers in Cornwall & Devon for the most current information.