HMS JAMES FENNEL - Cornwall & Devon

The HMS James Fennel wreck, sitting at 22 metres, is a cracking dive for anyone looking for a piece of Cornish history. She’s a former trawler, built in 1918, and what we love most is how much of her remains intact, considering she ran aground back in 1920. You can still make out the distinct lines of the hull, and the triple-expansion engine and single boiler are particularly striking, almost eerie in their preservation. What you'll find here is a genuine exploration. Spend time poking around the engine room, or follow the bow, which is often swarming with schools of pollack. We’ve seen conger eels peering out from gaps in the plating, and the resident crabs are always a good laugh to watch scuttling across the deck. For divers who appreciate history and a good rummage, this wreck is our pick for a satisfying afternoon. Just be mindful of the currents, they can pick up quickly here, so planning your dive around slack water is always a smart move.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.546270, -2.458185
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
22m

Marine Protected Area: Chesil Beach and Stennis Ledges

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 JAMES FENNEL

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 JAMES FENNEL

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 James Fennel dive site?
The maximum depth of the HMS James Fennel dive site is 22 meters. This makes it an accessible wreck for divers with appropriate training and experience.
What kind of marine life and wreck features can divers expect to see on the HMS James Fennel?
The HMS James Fennel is a fascinating trawler wreck, measuring 35.2m x 6.7m. Divers can explore its historical features, including a single boiler and a triple expansion engine of 75NHP, built by Plenty & Sons. While specific marine life is not detailed in our current data, wrecks often become artificial reefs, attracting various species over time.
Is the HMS James Fennel considered a difficult dive, suitable for beginners or only experienced divers?
The HMS James Fennel is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive. It is also noted as a "Dangerous wreck," indicating that it is best suited for divers with some experience rather than absolute beginners. Proper training and caution are advised when exploring this site.
What are the best tidal conditions and time of year to dive the HMS James Fennel for optimal experience?
Our current data for the HMS James Fennel does not specify the best tidal conditions or optimal time of year for diving. For general guidance on planning your dives, you can explore our When to Dive section. We recommend checking local dive centers for up-to-date information on site-specific conditions.
What diving certifications are required to dive the HMS James Fennel wreck?
While our data classifies the HMS James Fennel as an intermediate and dangerous wreck, specific certification requirements are not provided. Generally, an Advanced Open Water certification or equivalent is recommended for intermediate wreck dives. Always consult with a local dive operator in Cornwall & Devon for precise requirements.
What are the typical visibility, currents, and general underwater conditions like at the HMS James Fennel dive site?
Our current data for the HMS James Fennel does not include details on typical visibility, currents, or general underwater conditions. These factors can vary greatly depending on weather and local marine activity. We advise checking with local dive operators in Cornwall & Devon for the most current conditions before planning your dive.