IDA (EX ABBEY TOWN) - Cornwall & Devon

The *Ida*, or what’s left of her, is a favourite of ours for a quick, shallow potter. She’s not deep, just 8m at most, so it’s a site that gives you plenty of bottom time, perfect for new wreck divers or those wanting a relaxed bimble. What was once the barque *Abbey Town*, sunk off Perelle Bay in 1892, is now largely broken up, but you can still make out the distinct ribs and hull sections, spread across the seabed. We love the way the light filters through the kelp, dappling the rusty metal. It’s not about grand penetration here, it’s about appreciating the history, the way the ironwork has become part of the reef. Look closely amongst the plates and twisted beams, and you’ll find plenty of gobies and blennies peeking out. Crabs scuttle between the nooks, and we’ve often seen dogfish nestled down in the sand beside larger sections of the wreck. It’s a great spot for macro photography, especially on a sunny day when the visibility really picks up. Go on a slack tide for the best experience.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
49.468166, -2.663000
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
8m

Marine Protected Area: Gouliot Caves and Headland, Sark

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 IDA (EX ABBEY TOWN)

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 IDA (EX ABBEY TOWN)

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