LANCASTER
Protected Area
Gribbin Head - Polperro
Why dive here
With 176+ marine species recorded in the area - including blue sharks, dolphins, dwarf minke whales, humpback whales and ocean sunfish (mola mola) - LANCASTER offers some of Cornwall & Devon's richest wreck diving. Water ranges 10-18°C, warmest July, August, September.
The Lancaster, a steamship that went down in 1894, is one of those shallow wrecks that just keeps giving. We love it because you’re practically surface diving, hovering over history. At a maximum depth of 2m, it’s ideal for a long, relaxed snorkel or a very, very shallow dive. What you'll experience here is a lovely mix of history and biology. The remains are spread out, with boiler plates and ribs creating little nooks and crannies. Shoals of tiny silversides shimmer through the structure, and we’ve seen crabs scuttling amongst the seaweed-draped metalwork. It’s perfect for macro photography, or just exploring without the pressure of depth. We’d suggest heading out on a calm, sunny day to really appreciate the way the light plays on the wreck and the marine life. It’s accessible for almost anyone, and a great spot to just drift and observe.
Typical LANCASTER Dive Profile
Illustrative profile based on site depth and type. Actual dive profiles vary - always follow your dive computer and training.
Safety Notes
Wreck site - avoid penetration without wreck diving certification. Watch for sharp metal and entanglement hazards.
Nearest Dive Centres to LANCASTER
Dive shops near LANCASTER
Dive Looe
Scuba 2000
Viewpoint Diving Centre
Karleyth Diving Ltd.
Plymouth Diving Centre
Sound Diving Limited
Reviews for LANCASTER
Conditions
Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for LANCASTER
LANCASTER Ocean Conditions
Monthly averages for LANCASTER, sourced from Open-Meteo marine data - nearest station: Open-Meteo marine grid (50.44, -2.73) (3km away)
October Averages
Sea Temperature
17°C
62°F · Range: 15.1–17.5°C
Air Temperature
13°C
56°F
Wind Speed
8.14 m/s
15.8 knots
Atmospheric Pressure
1011 hPa
Based on 4 years of monitoring data · Data sources: Open-Meteo marine data
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