KINGSDYKE - Cornwall & Devon

The Kingsdyke, sunk by a German U-boat in 1918, is a proper technical wreck dive, sitting upright at 60 metres. This isn't one for the faint-hearted or those with limited gas planning. What we love about her is the sheer scale and the way she’s been taken over by the ocean. The bow section is particularly impressive, with her anchor chains still visible, draped like ancient jewellery. Dropping down, the visibility in this part of Lyme Bay can be surprising, often 10-15 metres on a good day, but it’s still an ethereal descent into the gloom. We’ve seen conger eels the size of small trees living in her cargo holds, their heads poking out from twisted metal. Giant plumose anemones coat every surface, swaying gently in the subtle current. The stern is more broken up, but you can still make out the prop shaft leading to where the huge propeller once was. This is a dive for experienced deep wreck divers who appreciate the historical context and the dramatic, stark beauty of a century-old steel ghost. Expect multiple decompression stops and cold water, even in summer.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.050000, -1.183333
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
60m

Marine Protected Area: Wight-Barfleur Reef

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 KINGSDYKE

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 KINGSDYKE

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 for diving at Kingsdyke?
The maximum depth for diving at Kingsdyke is 60 meters. This deep wreck dive offers an exciting challenge for appropriately certified divers.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at Kingsdyke?
At Kingsdyke, divers can expect to explore the impressive remains of a merchant vessel, sunk on January 17, 1918, during WW1. This 79.2m x 11m wreck, classified as non-dangerous, provides a fascinating historical underwater feature. While specific marine life is not detailed, wrecks often become vibrant artificial reefs, attracting various species over time.
How challenging is diving at Kingsdyke, considering currents and potential hazards?
Diving at Kingsdyke is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive. While it is a non-dangerous wreck, its depth of 60 meters requires advanced diving skills and experience. Divers should always be prepared for varying conditions typical of deeper wreck dives.
What is the best time to dive at Kingsdyke to experience optimal conditions?
The provided data does not specify the optimal time to dive at Kingsdyke for best conditions. We recommend checking local dive operators or our When to Dive section for up-to-date information on seasonal conditions and visibility.
What scuba diving certifications are typically required or recommended for diving at Kingsdyke?
Given the 60-meter depth and intermediate difficulty of the Kingsdyke wreck, advanced certifications such as PADI Deep Diver, TDI Advanced Nitrox, or equivalent technical diving qualifications are typically required or highly recommended. These certifications ensure divers have the necessary training for deep wreck penetration and decompression procedures.
What are the typical current conditions and general environmental factors divers should be aware of at Kingsdyke?
The provided data does not detail the typical current conditions or specific environmental factors for Kingsdyke. As an intermediate 60-meter wreck dive in the Cornwall & Devon area, divers should be prepared for potentially variable currents, colder water temperatures, and reduced visibility often associated with deeper dives in this region. Always consult local dive centers for the most current conditions.