HMS SEVRA - Cornwall & Devon

The HMS Sevra, down at a comfortable 10 metres, is one of our favourite shallow wrecks in the Falmouth area. We'd call it a perfect second dive or a really solid choice for those newer to wreck diving. She was a factory ship, built in 1929 and then pressed into service as a minesweeper in 1940, only to be sunk by a mine herself that November. Today, she's broken but still recognisable, spread across a sandy seabed. You can see the ribs of her hull, plates peeled back like old tin cans, and a fair bit of machinery still poking out. We love seeing the light play through the gaps, especially on a sunny day. It’s home to plenty of tompot blennies peering from every crevice, dogfish often resting in the sand nearby, and we’ve even spotted conger eels tucked under the larger sections. Given her depth, you get plenty of bottom time to really nose around. Look for the distinct bow and stern sections, which are still somewhat intact. We’d suggest going at slack water, as currents can pick up, especially around spring tides.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.136980, -5.020768
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
10m

Marine Protected Area: Carricknath Point to Porthbean Beach

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 SEVRA

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 SEVRA

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 range for diving the HMS SEVRA wreck?
The HMS SEVRA wreck is found at a depth of 10 meters. This relatively shallow depth makes it accessible for many divers, offering a great opportunity to explore this historical site.
What marine life and historical artifacts can divers expect to see at the HMS SEVRA dive site?
Divers exploring the HMS SEVRA can expect to encounter the remains of a steel factory ship, which was later hired as a mine sweeper before being sunk by a mine in 1940. While specific marine life is not detailed in our current data, wrecks often become artificial reefs, attracting various local species. You can learn more about general marine life in the region on our wildlife database.
What is the difficulty level of diving HMS SEVRA, and is it suitable for recreational divers?
Diving the HMS SEVRA is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive. This means it is generally suitable for recreational divers who have some experience beyond entry-level certifications. Divers should be comfortable with wreck diving techniques and conditions.
When is the best time of year to dive HMS SEVRA for optimal visibility and weather conditions?
Our current data for the HMS SEVRA does not specify the best time of year for optimal visibility and weather conditions. For general guidance on diving in Cornwall & Devon, we recommend consulting our When to Dive section for regional climate patterns. Local dive operators can also provide up-to-date information.
What specific diving certifications are required or recommended to dive the HMS SEVRA?
Given the intermediate difficulty of the HMS SEVRA wreck, divers are typically recommended to hold an Advanced Open Water certification or equivalent. While not explicitly stated as required, a wreck diving specialty certification would be highly beneficial for safely exploring this historical site. Always check with your dive operator for their specific requirements.
What are the usual currents and underwater conditions like at the HMS SEVRA dive site?
Our current data does not detail the usual currents or specific underwater conditions at the HMS SEVRA dive site. However, the wreck is classified as a dangerous wreck, which suggests that divers should be prepared for potentially challenging conditions or structural hazards. Always dive with experienced guides and be aware of local conditions.