INDIANA - Cornwall & Devon

The INDIANA, just off the coast of Cornwall, is one of those wrecks that just keeps giving. At a maximum depth of 5m, it’s a brilliant shallow dive and our favourite for a relaxed afternoon exploring history. She was a steamship, built in 1899, that went down in 1901. You can still make out the two boilers and the triple-expansion engine, lying scattered across the seabed. It’s an ideal spot for newer wreck divers or those looking to spend a good hour underwater without deep decompression worries. We love the way the light filters through the shallow water here; it really illuminates the wreck’s details. You'll often find schools of pollack darting through the skeletal remains, and dogfish tucked into crevices. The wreck has become a home for all sorts of local critters, with anemones clinging to the metalwork. Try to hit it on a calm day with good sun, and you'll get the best visibility. It’s an easy entry from a boat, and honestly, we think it’s a site that tells a fantastic story without needing to go deep.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.784400, -0.372080
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
5m

Marine Protected Area: Adur Estuary

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 INDIANA

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 INDIANA

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 Indiana dive site?
The Indiana dive site has a maximum depth of 5 meters. This shallow depth makes it accessible for many divers exploring this historic wreck.
What kind of marine life and wreck features can divers expect to see at the Indiana dive site?
Divers exploring the Indiana wreck can expect to see the features of a steam ship vessel, including its two boilers, triple expansion engine of 188HP, and single shaft. The wreck, built in 1899 and measuring 84.4m x 11.6m, offers an interesting structure to explore. While specific marine life isn't detailed in the provided information, wrecks typically attract various species over time.
How challenging is diving the Indiana wreck, and is it suitable for beginner divers?
Diving the Indiana wreck is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive. Due to this classification and its designation as a "Dangerous wreck," it may not be suitable for absolute beginner divers. Divers should have appropriate experience and certifications for intermediate wreck diving.
What are the best times of year or conditions to dive the Indiana wreck for optimal visibility?
The provided data does not specify the best times of year or conditions for optimal visibility at the Indiana wreck. For general guidance on dive conditions and planning, you might consult DivePlnr's When to Dive section for the Cornwall & Devon region.
What scuba diving certifications are required or recommended to dive the Indiana dive site?
Given the Indiana wreck is classified as an intermediate difficulty and a "Dangerous wreck," divers should possess certifications appropriate for such conditions. Advanced open water certification and specialized wreck diving certifications are typically recommended for sites of this nature to ensure safety and proper exploration techniques.
What are the typical current conditions and water visibility at the Indiana dive site?
The provided data does not include information on the typical current conditions or water visibility at the Indiana dive site. Divers planning a trip to Cornwall & Devon should consult local dive operators for up-to-date information on these dynamic conditions.