HOEGH OSAKA - Cornwall & Devon

Okay, so a grounded ship isn't a *sunken* one, technically, but the Hoegh Osaka is a proper beast of a dive, and one we genuinely love. It's a car carrier that ran aground in 2015, and while it was salvaged, the hull was extensively damaged in the process and scuttled in shallower waters to become an artificial reef. Maxing out at 7m, this is a relatively shallow dive, perfect for extended bottom times and really exploring the vast, mangled remains. You’ll drop onto a huge, sprawling metal sculpture. Twisted steel plates and crumpled bulkheads create fantastic swim-throughs, if you’re careful and properly trained for overhead environments. We’ve seen conger eels lurking in shadowed corners and massive schools of juvenile pollack swarming around the structure. Light penetrates almost everywhere, highlighting the vibrant jewel anemones that carpet parts of the wreck. It’s a site that changes with the light and the seasons; always something new to spot. Our tip? Go on a calm day with good visibility. You’ll thank us.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.780666, -1.248333
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
7m

Marine Protected Area: Solent Maritime

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 HOEGH OSAKA

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 HOEGH OSAKA

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 for diving the Hoegh Osaka wreck?
The Hoegh Osaka wreck is located at a maximum depth of 7m. This makes it a relatively shallow dive, suitable for many certification levels and offering good bottom times. You can find more details about this site on its dedicated page: Hoegh Osaka.
What kind of marine life and wreckage can divers expect to see at the Hoegh Osaka dive site?
The Hoegh Osaka is a significant motor vessel wreck, measuring 179.9m x 32.2m, which sank on January 3, 2015. Divers can explore its hull and superstructure, offering a fascinating glimpse into a modern cargo ship. While specific marine life is not detailed in the provided data, wrecks often attract various species over time, which you can learn more about in our wildlife database.
How difficult is the Hoegh Osaka dive, and is it suitable for beginner divers?
The Hoegh Osaka dive is classified as intermediate difficulty. While not suitable for absolute beginners, divers with some experience will find it an engaging site. It's recommended that divers have appropriate training and comfort with wreck diving to safely explore this site.
What is the best time of year to dive the Hoegh Osaka for optimal conditions?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year to dive the Hoegh Osaka for optimal conditions. For general guidance on seasonal diving in the Cornwall & Devon region, please consult our When to Dive section for broader insights into local conditions.
What diving certifications are required to explore the Hoegh Osaka wreck?
The provided data does not specify particular diving certifications required to explore the Hoegh Osaka wreck, which is classified as an intermediate dive. As it is a wreck dive, it is generally recommended that divers possess at least an Advanced Open Water certification or a specialized Wreck Diver certification for safe exploration. Always ensure your equipment and training are appropriate for the dive.
What are the typical currents and visibility conditions at the Hoegh Osaka dive site?
The provided data does not include specific details regarding typical currents or visibility conditions at the Hoegh Osaka dive site. Divers planning to visit this wreck should consult local dive operators for up-to-date information on site conditions closer to their dive date.