HMS GOLDEN SUNSET (POSSIBLY) - Cornwall & Devon

Okay, the HMS Golden Sunset. “Possibly” being the operative word in the name, which we always find a bit charming for a dive site. It’s a drifter, sunk after a collision off the coast in 1918, and what we love about her is that she’s surprisingly intact for her age and the often-rough English Channel conditions. Dropping down to 28 metres, you’ll find her resting upright, a proper little time capsule. The stern, in particular, is a highlight, with some of the superstructure still recognisable. Our favourite part has to be finning through the open holds, where schools of pollack often swirl around you, their silver scales catching the limited light. Look closely into the nooks and crannies of the bow, and you’ll spot colourful jewel anemones and the occasional placid dogfish tucked away. It’s not a huge wreck, so you can take your time, really absorb the history and the marine life that has made it home. We’d suggest a slack water dive to truly appreciate her, as currents here can pick up. It's a fantastic dive for those who appreciate history and the quiet beauty of a wreck slowly succumbing to the sea.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.556965, -2.258783
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
28m

Marine Protected Area: Studland to 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 GOLDEN SUNSET (POSSIBLY)

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 GOLDEN SUNSET (POSSIBLY)

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 typical depth of the HMS Golden Sunset wreck for divers?
The HMS Golden Sunset wreck typically lies at a depth of 28 meters, making it an accessible dive for those with appropriate training. This depth allows for good bottom time while exploring the historical remains of this vessel.
What kind of marine life and wreck features can divers expect to find at the HMS Golden Sunset dive site?
Divers exploring the HMS Golden Sunset can expect to encounter the structural remains of a 25.6m x 5.8m drifter vessel. Key features include its single boiler, triple expansion engine, and single shaft, offering fascinating insights into early 20th-century maritime engineering. While specific marine life isn't detailed, wrecks typically become vibrant artificial reefs, attracting various local species which you can learn more about in our wildlife database.
How challenging is diving the HMS Golden Sunset wreck, and is it suitable for all experience levels?
Diving the HMS Golden Sunset is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive. Due to its classification as a "Dangerous wreck," it is not suitable for all experience levels and requires divers to have a solid foundation in wreck diving techniques and safety protocols. Divers should possess the necessary skills and experience to navigate potential hazards associated with historical wrecks.
When is the best time of year to dive the HMS Golden Sunset for optimal conditions and visibility?
Specific information regarding the best time of year for optimal conditions and visibility at the HMS Golden Sunset is not provided in our current data. We recommend checking local dive centers in Cornwall & Devon for up-to-date conditions before planning your trip. For general guidance on dive seasons, you can visit our When to Dive section.
What diving certifications are recommended or required to dive the HMS Golden Sunset wreck?
Given the HMS Golden Sunset is an intermediate-difficulty wreck dive at 28 meters and classified as a "Dangerous wreck," an Advanced Open Water certification is highly recommended. Additionally, a specialized Wreck Diver certification would provide essential skills for safely exploring such historical sites. Always ensure your training aligns with the challenges of the dive.
What are the typical current conditions and visibility at the HMS Golden Sunset dive site?
Our current data does not provide specific details on the typical current conditions or visibility at the HMS Golden Sunset dive site. As these factors can vary greatly, it is always best to consult with local dive operators in Cornwall & Devon immediately prior to your dive for the most accurate and up-to-date information.