La Saline - Cornwall & Devon

The Virgin Islands Coral Reef National Monument, specifically the zones around Salt and Cooper Islands, is where we often find ourselves drifting, just soaking it all in. Forget the typical BVI party boat scene, this is a place to really slow down and appreciate the smaller things. We love dropping in on the lee side of Cooper Island, where the swells are gentle and you can properly check out the mustard hill coral formations – they really spread out here, creating cool hidey-holes. Keep an eye out for emerald clingfish stuck to the coral, or the shy padded clingfish. Our favourite spot is a little shelf where we often see indigo hamlets duking it out over territory. The angelfish here are particularly bold, coming right up to check you out. It’s not about huge pelagics; it’s about the health of the reef itself and the sheer number of species living within it. For divers who appreciate subtle beauty and a relaxed pace, this monument offers a truly restorative dive. We’d suggest going early in the morning before any day boats arrive, it just feels more serene.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
49.650000, -1.650000
Type
reef

Marine Protected Area: Les Ecrehous

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 La Saline

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 La Saline

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