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