HMS WARWICK DEEPING - Cornwall & Devon

The HMS Warwick Deeping, a former anti-submarine trawler, sits upright at 35 metres, a proper dive for those who appreciate a bit of history with their nitrogen narcosis. We’ve found her to be a consistently rewarding dive, especially if you catch her on a good day, visibility-wise. The sheer size of her – 47.5 metres long – means there’s plenty to explore, from the stern where the gun mount once sat to the bow, still sporting that impressive 4.7-inch gun. What we love most here is the way the wreck has become a living reef. Dropping onto the deck, you’ll often find conger eels peering from every dark hole, their thick bodies disappearing into the gloom. Jewel anemones cling to the metalwork, a riot of colour in the beam of your torch, and pollack often school above the main structure, their silver scales flashing. Our favourite part has to be the bridge area; it’s collapsed a bit, but still offers some interesting swim-throughs if you're comfortable with overhead environments and good on your buoyancy. Just be mindful of the current, it can pick up, so planning your slack water window is crucial for a relaxed dive. This wreck suits experienced divers comfortable with depth and who appreciate a slice of wartime history reclaimed by the sea.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.570835, -1.463406
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
35m

Marine Protected Area: Tennyson

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 WARWICK DEEPING

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 WARWICK DEEPING

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 Warwick Deeping dive site and what is the average depth of the wreck?
The HMS Warwick Deeping dive site has a depth of 35m. While a specific average depth isn't provided, divers can expect to explore this fascinating wreck at around this depth.
What kind of marine life and historical artifacts can divers expect to see on the HMS Warwick Deeping wreck?
Divers exploring the HMS Warwick Deeping wreck can expect to encounter historical artifacts from its past as an anti-submarine vessel. The wreck, a former trawler sunk in 1940, still features a 4.7 inch gun forward and machine gun mounts, offering a glimpse into its wartime service. No specific marine life is detailed in the provided information.
How challenging is the HMS Warwick Deeping as a dive site, and what level of diving experience is recommended?
The HMS Warwick Deeping is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive site. This suggests that divers should have a good level of experience and comfort with wreck diving and potentially deeper dives. It's a rewarding site for those with the appropriate skills.
When is the best time of year to dive the HMS Warwick Deeping for optimal conditions and visibility?
Unfortunately, the provided data does not specify the best time of year to dive the HMS Warwick Deeping for optimal conditions and visibility. We recommend checking local dive operator reports or our When to Dive section for general guidance on the Cornwall & Devon region.
What scuba diving certifications are required or highly recommended to dive the HMS Warwick Deeping?
Given the HMS Warwick Deeping is an intermediate dive site with a depth of 35m, certifications such as Advanced Open Water Diver and potentially a Wreck Diver specialty are highly recommended. These certifications will equip divers with the necessary skills and knowledge for safe and enjoyable exploration of this historical wreck.
What are the typical current conditions and visibility like at the HMS Warwick Deeping dive site?
The provided data does not include specific details regarding the typical current conditions or visibility at the HMS Warwick Deeping dive site. Divers planning a trip should consult local dive centers in Cornwall & Devon for up-to-date information before diving.