JAFFA - Cornwall & Devon

The Jaffa, resting at 23 metres, is a solid wreck dive off the Cornish coast, offering a good glimpse into maritime history. This steamship went down in 1918, and what remains is a classic spread of boilers, engine parts, and hull sections for divers to pick through. We’ve found conger eels tucked into crevices, and a decent number of crabs scuttling over the plates. It’s a good choice for those who appreciate a historical wreck rather than an intact structure, and it’s generally accessible for anyone comfortable at this depth. The wreck is well-broken but still evocative of its past life.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.642868, -0.452100
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
23m

Marine Protected Area: Kingmere

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 JAFFA

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 JAFFA

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 are the typical depths for diving at the Jaffa dive sites?
The Jaffa dive site, a fascinating steam ship wreck, has a typical depth of 23 meters. This makes it an accessible dive for those with appropriate training. You can find more details about diving the Jaffa wreck on DivePlnr.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see when diving in Jaffa?
When diving at Jaffa, divers can expect to explore the impressive underwater features of a steam ship vessel, including its two boilers and triple expansion engine. While specific marine life details are not provided for this site, wrecks typically become artificial reefs, attracting various species. For general information on marine life, please visit our wildlife database.
How challenging are the dive sites around Jaffa for different skill levels?
The Jaffa dive site is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive, making it suitable for divers with some experience. It is also noted as a "Dangerous wreck," which suggests additional considerations for safety and skill. Divers should ensure they have the necessary training and experience for this type of dive in Cornwall & Devon.
What is the best time of year to go diving in Jaffa for optimal conditions?
Specific information regarding the best time of year for optimal diving conditions at the Jaffa wreck is not provided in our current data. However, general guidance for diving in the United Kingdom can often be found by consulting our when to dive resource.
What scuba diving certifications are needed to dive at the various Jaffa dive sites?
While specific certification requirements for the Jaffa wreck are not explicitly listed, its classification as an intermediate and "Dangerous wreck" dive suggests that advanced open water certification or a wreck diving specialty may be highly recommended. Always check with local dive operators in Cornwall & Devon for precise requirements before planning your dive.
What are the typical water conditions, currents, and visibility like for diving in Jaffa?
Our current data does not provide specific details on typical water conditions, currents, or visibility for diving at the Jaffa dive site. Conditions can vary greatly, so it's always best to consult local dive centers in Cornwall & Devon for the most up-to-date information before your dive.