HUNTSMOOR - Cornwall & Devon

The *Huntsmoor* is a proper wreck dive, a big steamship that went down in 1918 after a run-in with a German U-boat. It sits deep, around 47 metres, so it’s one for the experienced trimix divers. What we love about this wreck isn't just its history, but how it's become a thriving habitat. Descending, you feel that pressure, the water getting colder, darker, and then the structure starts to resolve out of the blue. It’s an imposing wreck, long at nearly 120 metres, and you can spend a good chunk of a dive exploring the various sections. Our favourite part is often the stern, where the prop shaft is still visible, encrusted with dead man's fingers and anemones. The currents can be a bit lively out here, so pick your slack water carefully. Look out for conger eels in the deeper sections, and we’ve often seen big shoals of bib darting in and out of the hold openings. It’s a challenging dive, sure, but the sense of scale and the sheer amount of life that calls the *Huntsmoor* home makes it a standout for us.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.351550, -0.221900
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
47m

Marine Protected Area: Offshore Brighton

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 HUNTSMOOR

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 HUNTSMOOR

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 SS Huntsmoor dive site?
The maximum depth of the SS Huntsmoor dive site is 47 meters. This makes it a deeper wreck dive, suitable for divers with appropriate training and experience in deep diving.
What kind of marine life or features can divers expect to see on the SS Huntsmoor wreck?
The SS Huntsmoor is a significant historical wreck, a steam ship vessel that was torpedoed and sunk in 1918 by German submarine UB 40. Divers can explore the remains of this large wreck, which measures 119.2m x 14.6m. While specific marine life isn't detailed, wrecks often become vibrant artificial reefs, attracting various species over time, which you can learn more about in our wildlife database.
How challenging is the SS Huntsmoor wreck dive, and is it suitable for all experience levels?
The SS Huntsmoor wreck dive is classified as intermediate difficulty. With a maximum depth of 47 meters, it is not suitable for all experience levels and requires divers to have advanced training and comfort with deeper diving.
What are the optimal times or seasons to dive the SS Huntsmoor for the best conditions?
The provided data does not specify optimal times or seasons to dive the SS Huntsmoor for the best conditions. For up-to-date information on local conditions and seasonal variations, it's always best to consult with local dive operators in Cornwall & Devon. You can also explore general advice on when to dive for more insights.
What scuba diving certifications are required to dive the SS Huntsmoor wreck?
Given the SS Huntsmoor is an intermediate level wreck dive with a maximum depth of 47 meters, divers will typically need advanced open water certification and likely a deep diver specialty certification. Wreck diving specialties are also highly recommended to safely explore such sites and utilize appropriate equipment.
What are the typical current conditions and visibility like at the SS Huntsmoor dive site?
The provided data does not include specific information on the typical current conditions or visibility at the SS Huntsmoor dive site. Divers should always check with local dive centers in Cornwall & Devon for the most current reports before planning their dive to ensure safe and enjoyable conditions.