KAAKSBURG - Cornwall & Devon

Kaaksburg is one of our favourites for a proper shallow wreck rummage. She’s a German motor vessel, a good 60 metres long, and lies in such skinny water you can almost reach out of the boat and touch her. That’s the beauty of it. We’re talking two metres, max, so you get incredible light penetration, even on a cloudy day. What you experience here is a proper shallow dive, often with surprisingly good visibility. We love kicking around her superstructure. It’s all a bit collapsed and spread out now, but that just means more nooks and crannies for the local residents. Expect to find plenty of crabs tucked into crevices, some sizable pollack eyeing you from the shadows, and often a few colourful wrasse nosing around the bits of plating. It’s a classic Cornwall wreck dive, a slow exploration, perfect for photographers or anyone who just wants to spend ages picking over history without the pressure of depth or deco. Bring a torch, even in the shallows, to really bring out the colours and peer into the darker corners.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
51.178818, -4.661943
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
2m

Marine Protected Area: Lundy

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 KAAKSBURG

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 KAAKSBURG

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 typical diving depth at Kaaksburg?
The typical diving depth at the Kaaksburg dive site is a shallow 2 meters. This makes it an accessible site for divers looking for a relatively shallow experience and is ideal for extended bottom times.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can be found when diving at Kaaksburg?
When diving at Kaaksburg, the primary underwater feature is the wreck of a motor vessel, the EX-MARGARET CATHARINA, which sank on November 6, 1980. This substantial wreck measures 61.9m x 10.1m and is classified as a wreck showing any portion of its hull or superstructure, providing an interesting structure to explore. While specific marine life is not detailed in the provided data, wrecks commonly serve as artificial reefs, attracting various species over time.
How challenging is diving at Kaaksburg for different skill levels?
Diving at Kaaksburg is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive. This suggests that divers should have some prior experience and comfort in various conditions. It's an excellent site for those looking to advance beyond beginner dives and explore a wreck.
What is the best time of year to dive at Kaaksburg for optimal conditions?
Information regarding the best time of year to dive at Kaaksburg for optimal conditions is not available in the provided data. For general guidance on seasonal diving, you might consult DivePlnr's When to Dive section to understand typical regional patterns.
What scuba diving certifications are required to dive at Kaaksburg?
The provided data does not specify particular scuba diving certifications required to dive at Kaaksburg. Given its intermediate difficulty and status as a wreck dive, it is generally recommended that divers hold at least an Advanced Open Water certification or equivalent. Always check with local dive operators for specific requirements and any necessary wreck diving specializations.
What are the typical currents and water conditions like at the Kaaksburg dive site?
The provided data does not include information on the typical currents or specific water conditions, such as visibility or temperature, at the Kaaksburg dive site. Divers should always consult local dive centers for up-to-date conditions and forecasts before planning their dive to ensure safety and enjoyment.