HMS VERNON II (POSSIBLY) - Cornwall & Devon

The HMS Vernon II, or what we strongly suspect is her, offers a deep dive with a real sense of history. Dropping down to 47 metres, you’re looking at a substantial wooden wreck, originally a sailing first-rate built in 1855, later converted to a steamship. It's a proper expedition, demanding good planning and a calm day, but the payoff is immense. What we love about this site is the sheer scale and the way the sea has reclaimed it. Visibility, when it's good, lets you appreciate the ship’s length, 74.7 metres, sprawling across the seabed. You'll see massive timbers, dark and waterlogged, still holding their form, often draped in dead man's fingers and anemones. Our favourite part is peeking into the darker recesses, imagining the life she once held. The engine room area is particularly intriguing, though much of the machinery is long gone. Keep an eye out for conger eels nestled amongst the beams; they're almost always present. This isn't a dive for beginners, but for experienced wreck enthusiasts looking for a challenging, rewarding exploration, it’s a standout.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.567867, -0.631167
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
47m

Marine Protected Area: Offshore Overfalls

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 VERNON II (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 VERNON II (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

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical depth range for diving at the HMS Vernon II site?
The HMS Vernon II dive site has a typical depth of 47 meters. This makes it a deeper dive, suitable for those with appropriate training and experience in deep diving.
What kind of marine life and historical remnants can divers expect to see when exploring HMS Vernon II?
Divers exploring the HMS Vernon II can expect to encounter the historical remnants of a steam ship vessel, originally built of wood in 1855 as a sailing 1st rate. This impressive wreck, measuring 74.7m x 18.6m, offers a fascinating glimpse into maritime history, having been sunk on November 29, 1924. While specific marine life is not detailed in the provided information, wrecks typically attract a variety of local species over time, which you can learn more about in our wildlife database.
How difficult is the HMS Vernon II dive site, and is it recommended for divers of all experience levels?
The HMS Vernon II dive site is classified as intermediate difficulty. Due to its depth of 47 meters and classification, it is not recommended for divers of all experience levels, but rather for those with suitable training and experience in deeper wreck diving.
What is the best time of year to dive HMS Vernon II for optimal conditions and visibility?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year to dive the HMS Vernon II for optimal conditions and visibility. General guidance for diving in the United Kingdom often suggests warmer months for potentially better conditions. For more information on seasonal diving, you can visit our When to Dive section.
Are there any specific diving certifications or advanced training required to dive at HMS Vernon II?
Given the HMS Vernon II dive site's depth of 47 meters and its classification as an intermediate difficulty wreck dive, advanced training and specific certifications are highly recommended. Divers should possess certifications for deep diving and potentially wreck diving to safely explore this site.
What are the usual current conditions and underwater visibility like at the HMS Vernon II dive site?
The provided data does not include specific details regarding the usual current conditions or underwater visibility at the HMS Vernon II dive site. Divers planning to visit this site in Cornwall & Devon should consult local dive operators for up-to-date information on conditions.