HMS LANDRAIL (PROBABLY) - Cornwall & Devon

We’ve always had a soft spot for the Landrail, even with the "probably" tacked onto its name. This isn't a sleek, intact warship; it’s a proper demolition job, a stark reminder of its target practice past. Lying at 30 metres, the torpedo boat destroyer is heavily broken, but that's precisely its charm. You'll descend onto a scatter of metal, plates, and twisted girders, all beautifully colonised by plumose anemones and dead man's fingers. Our favourite part is picking through the debris, spotting the tell-tale shapes of what was once a powerful vessel. Look for the engine block, a big, hulking piece of machinery that’s still very much recognisable. There's a lot of life here too, even without official species counts. We often find conger eels tucked into the larger sections and schools of pouting weaving through the structure. Visibility can be a bit hit-or-miss, as with much of the UK, but on a good day, the light filtering through the anemones is something else. It's a dive for those who appreciate history and the way the sea reclaims its own, rather than a perfectly preserved wreck.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.562650, -2.625883
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
30m

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 LANDRAIL (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 LANDRAIL (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 typical depth of the HMS Landrail (PROBABLY) dive site?
The HMS Landrail (PROBABLY) dive site has a typical depth of 30 meters. This makes it an exciting dive for those comfortable with deeper wreck explorations and intermediate diving conditions.
What kind of marine life and wreck features can divers expect to see on the HMS Landrail (PROBABLY)?
The HMS Landrail (PROBABLY) is a torpedo boat vessel, measuring 59.4m x 8.5m, offering a substantial wreck to explore. While specific marine life isn't detailed, wrecks typically attract a variety of local species, making it a potential habitat for diverse aquatic life. Divers can expect to navigate the structure of this historic vessel, which was sunk in 1906 after being used as a target.
How challenging is diving the HMS Landrail (PROBABLY) wreck, and is it suitable for all experience levels?
Diving the HMS Landrail (PROBABLY) wreck is classified as intermediate difficulty. Due to its classification as a dangerous wreck and the depth of 30 meters, it is not suitable for all experience levels, particularly novice divers. Divers should possess appropriate training and experience for intermediate wreck diving.
When is the optimal time of year or tidal condition to dive the HMS Landrail (PROBABLY) for the best experience?
The provided data does not specify the optimal time of year or tidal conditions for diving the HMS Landrail (PROBABLY). For the best experience, it's always recommended to consult local dive operators or resources like DivePlnr's When to Dive section for up-to-date information on local conditions.
What diving certifications are required to dive the HMS Landrail (PROBABLY) wreck?
While specific certifications are not explicitly listed, given the HMS Landrail (PROBABLY) is an intermediate difficulty wreck dive at 30 meters, divers typically need at least an Advanced Open Water certification or equivalent. Specialized wreck diving certifications are highly recommended, especially considering its classification as a dangerous wreck. Always ensure your certification level matches the dive's demands.
What are the typical current and visibility conditions like at the HMS Landrail (PROBABLY) dive site?
The provided data does not include specific information on the typical current or visibility conditions at the HMS Landrail (PROBABLY) dive site. For the most current and accurate conditions, it is best to consult local dive centers or experienced guides in the Cornwall & Devon area before planning your dive.