IOANNIS FAFALIOS - Cornwall & Devon

The *Ioannis Fafalios* isn’t for the faint of heart, or indeed, the casually trained. Dropping to 58 metres, this is serious technical diving territory, but for those with the skills, it offers a hauntingly beautiful experience. We love the sheer scale of this wreck, a grand old steamship built in 1900, now resting upright and largely intact on the seabed. Descending onto the main deck, you’re met with a stark silhouette against the green-blue of the English Channel. The twin boilers are still prominent, standing like silent sentinels, often shrouded in schooling bib or pouting. We’d suggest a good torch is essential; even on a bright day, the depth eats the light, revealing the intricate details of the triple expansion engine. Look out for the resident conger eels, thick as a diver's thigh, peering from dark nooks in the collapsed superstructure. The bow section is our favourite for photography, especially when the visibility is good, allowing you to capture the full majesty of its descent into the gloom. This site isn't about vibrant colours, it’s about history, scale, and the quiet, deep beauty of a lost vessel.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.134420, -1.895467
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
58m

Marine Protected Area: West of Wight-Barfleur

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 IOANNIS FAFALIOS

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 IOANNIS FAFALIOS

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 IOANNIS FAFALIOS shipwreck dive site?
The maximum depth of the IOANNIS FAFALIOS shipwreck dive site is 58 meters. This makes it a deep dive, suitable for experienced divers.
What kind of marine life and wreck features can divers expect to see on the IOANNIS FAFALIOS?
The IOANNIS FAFALIOS is a fascinating steam ship wreck, built in 1900, offering divers a glimpse into maritime history. Key features include its two boilers, triple expansion engine, and single shaft, all within its substantial dimensions of 98.6m x 14.4m. While specific marine life is not detailed in our current data, wrecks like this often become artificial reefs, attracting various species over time.
How difficult is the IOANNIS FAFALIOS dive, and what makes it challenging for divers?
The IOANNIS FAFALIOS dive is classified as intermediate difficulty. Its significant depth of 58 meters is a primary factor contributing to this challenge, requiring divers to have appropriate deep diving experience and certifications. Divers should be prepared for the demands of a deep wreck dive.
What are the typical currents and underwater conditions like at the IOANNIS FAFALIOS dive site?
Our current data for the IOANNIS FAFALIOS dive site does not specify typical currents or underwater conditions such as visibility or temperature. Divers planning a trip to this Cornwall & Devon wreck should consult local dive operators for the most up-to-date information on conditions.
What diving certifications are required to dive the IOANNIS FAFALIOS shipwreck?
While specific certifications are not explicitly listed in our data, the IOANNIS FAFALIOS is an intermediate difficulty dive with a maximum depth of 58 meters. This depth typically necessitates advanced certifications such as Deep Diver or Technical Diving qualifications. Always ensure you meet the necessary training and experience levels for such a challenging dive.
When is the best time of year to dive the IOANNIS FAFALIOS for optimal conditions and visibility?
Our current data for the IOANNIS FAFALIOS does not specify the best time of year for optimal diving conditions or visibility. For the most accurate information on seasonal conditions in Cornwall & Devon, it is always best to consult local dive centers or resources like our When to Dive guide.