HMS OSWALDIAN - Cornwall & Devon

The HMS Oswaldian offers a real taste of history, sitting upright and surprisingly intact in just ten metres of water. We love a shallow wreck, especially when it’s this complete. You can trace the trawler’s lines, nose around the bow where a chain locker gapes open, and explore right back to the stern. While her superstructure is long gone, the hull is a busy apartment block for plumose anemones, their feathery tentacles swaying in the gentle surge. Look for squat lobsters tucked into every nook and cranny, and fat conger eels peering from deeper recesses. It’s a perfect site for newer wreck divers or those wanting a relaxed second dive, especially on a sunny day when the light penetrates right to the seabed, illuminating the rust and the vibrant life. We’d suggest hitting it around slack water for the best visibility; the current can kick up a bit of a silty cloud otherwise.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
51.321000, -3.276217
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
10m

Marine Protected Area: Barry Island

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 OSWALDIAN

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 OSWALDIAN

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 Oswaldian dive site, and what is the average depth for divers?
The HMS Oswaldian dive site has a depth of 10m. While an average depth isn't explicitly provided, divers can expect to explore this fascinating wreck site at around this depth.
What kind of marine life and historical artifacts can divers expect to see on the HMS Oswaldian wreck?
The HMS Oswaldian is a historic trawler vessel, sunk in 1940, offering a glimpse into maritime history. Divers can explore its structure, including the boiler and triple expansion engine, which are significant historical artifacts. While specific marine life isn't detailed, wrecks often become artificial reefs, attracting various species over time; you can learn more about common species in our wildlife database.
How difficult is the HMS Oswaldian dive, and what level of diving experience is recommended?
The HMS Oswaldian is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive, making it suitable for divers with some prior experience. It is also noted as a "Dangerous wreck," which implies additional considerations and requires divers to be competent and cautious when exploring this historic site.
What is the best time of year to dive the HMS Oswaldian for optimal visibility and calm conditions?
Specific information regarding the best time of year for optimal visibility and calm conditions at the HMS Oswaldian dive site is not provided in our current data. For general guidance on seasonal diving conditions in the region, please refer to our When to Dive section.
What specific diving certifications are required or highly recommended to dive the HMS Oswaldian?
Given the HMS Oswaldian is an intermediate difficulty wreck dive, an Advanced Open Water certification is highly recommended to ensure divers have the necessary skills and experience. Additionally, a Wreck Diver specialty certification would be beneficial for safely and effectively exploring this historic site.
What are the typical underwater currents and water temperatures at the HMS Oswaldian dive site?
Our current data for the HMS Oswaldian dive site does not include specific details on typical underwater currents or water temperatures. Divers planning a trip should consult local dive operators for the most up-to-date environmental conditions.