Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom

    HMS Victory

    Best months: Jul–Sep

    Why dive here

    With 176+ marine species recorded in the area - including blue sharks, dolphins, dwarf minke whales, humpback whales and ocean sunfish (mola mola) - HMS Victory offers some of Cornwall & Devon's richest wreck diving. Water ranges 10-18°C, warmest July, August, September.

    Best timeJul–Sep
    WetsuitA 5mm wetsuit
    Marine lifeBlue Sharks, Dolphins, Dwarf Minke Whales, Humpback Whales and Ocean Sunfish (Mola Mola) · 176+ species recorded
    Water10-18°C · warmest July, August, September
    CharacterWreck dive
    StandoutExceptional marine biodiversity

    The HMS Victory wreck isn't about deep blue visibility, let's be clear. You're diving history here, a 1737 first-rate ship of the line, and that means a whole lot of scattered timber, cannons, and ballast in often murky, sometimes green water. We love it because it’s a proper archaeological dive, more about discovery than pristine corals. You’ll spend time peering into the gloom, picking out the distinct shapes of cannon barrels and heavy timbers, imagining the scale of the ship that once rested here. The site is spread across the seabed, so it rewards methodical exploration, really slowing down and looking closely. Conger eels are a regular sight, lurking in crevices, and we’ve seen some surprisingly large Atlantic cod patrolling the periphery. Keep an eye out for the smaller stuff too: curled octopuses sometimes peek from under a timber, and the various rocklings flit between the wreckage. It’s not a site for everyone – if you need vibrant colours and 30-metre visibility, this isn't your spot. But for those who appreciate the tangible link to maritime history, and who don’t mind a bit of a low-visibility challenge, the Victory is absolutely fascinating. Our tip? Go with a guide who knows the site well, they’ll point out features you might otherwise swim right over.

    Safety Notes

    Wreck site - avoid penetration without wreck diving certification. Watch for sharp metal and entanglement hazards.

    Today06:3017:3411h 4m daylightGolden hour 16:50

    Reviews for HMS Victory

    Sign in to write a review

    Conditions

    Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for HMS Victory

    HMS Victory Ocean Conditions

    Monthly averages for HMS Victory, sourced from Open-Meteo marine data - nearest station: Open-Meteo marine grid (50.44, -2.73) (3km away)

    ExcellentGreatGoodFairPoor★Best monthsThis month

    October Averages

    Sea Temperature

    17°C

    62°F · Range: 15.1–17.5°C

    Air Temperature

    13°C

    56°F

    Wind Speed

    8.14 m/s

    15.8 knots

    Atmospheric Pressure

    1011 hPa

    Based on 4 years of monitoring data · Data sources: Open-Meteo marine data

    Plan & book

    Ways to dive Cornwall & Devon, from day trips to liveaboards.

    Day trips & courses

    via GetYourGuide

    Guided dives, courses and snorkel trips with instant booking.

    Find dive trips in Cornwall & Devon

    Places to stay

    via Booking.com

    Hotels and dive resorts near Cornwall & Devon.

    Search stays in Cornwall & Devon

    Dive insurance

    Most travel insurance excludes or limits scuba. Check what you need before you go.

    Dive insurance explained

    Partner links: we may earn a commission if you book, at no extra cost to you. How we make money

    Where to Stay near HMS Victory

    Prices from Booking.com. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

    Back to Cornwall & Devon