LCG 16 (POSSIBLY) - Cornwall & Devon

The LCG 16, or what we strongly suspect is her, offers a chilling glimpse into wartime history off the Cornish coast. At 49 metres, this isn't a dive for the inexperienced. We’ve found her upright and remarkably intact, a real testament to her robust construction, even if her deck coverings failed her in that fatal storm back in 1943. Dropping down, you feel the cold embrace of the Atlantic, but then the shape starts to emerge, stark against the gloom. Visibility can be a real lottery here, but on a good day, the sheer scale of her is impressive. We love exploring the bow, where you can still pick out the loading ramp mechanisms, now heavily encrusted with plumose anemones and dead man’s fingers. There’s a quiet sombreness to the site, knowing all hands were lost. Conger eels are often lurking in any shadowed crevice, and we’ve seen some decent-sized pollack cruising the length of the wreck. This dive is for those who appreciate maritime history and are comfortable with deeper, often challenging, UK conditions. Go with a skipper who knows the marks well; she’s not always easy to find.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
51.495730, -5.131624
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
49m

Marine Protected Area: Castlemartin Coast

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 LCG 16 (POSSIBLY)

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 LCG 16 (POSSIBLY)

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 depth range for diving the LCG 16 wreck off Freshwater West?
The LCG 16 wreck, a landing craft vessel, is situated at a depth of 49 meters. This makes it a deep dive, requiring advanced training and experience to explore this significant historical site off Cornwall & Devon.
What kind of marine life and historical artifacts can divers expect to see at the LCG 16 dive site?
Divers at the LCG 16 dive site will primarily explore the historical remains of a 58.2m x 9.4m landing craft vessel, which sank on April 26, 1943. While specific marine life is not detailed in the provided information, wrecks typically serve as artificial reefs, attracting diverse marine life over time.
How challenging is the LCG 16 wreck dive, considering its location and status as a war grave?
The LCG 16 wreck dive is classified as intermediate difficulty, largely due to its significant depth of 49 meters. Considering that all crew were lost when the vessel sank in 1943, divers should approach this site with profound respect, recognizing its status as a war grave.
What is the best time of year or specific conditions to dive the LCG 16 wreck for optimal visibility and safety?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year or specific conditions for optimal visibility and safety at the LCG 16 wreck. For any deep wreck dive, it's generally advisable to consult local dive operators for current conditions and to plan dives during periods of calm weather and slack tides to ensure the best experience and safety. More general information can be found on our When to Dive page.
Are there any specific diving certifications or permits required to dive the LCG 16, given it's a war grave?
The provided data does not explicitly mention specific permits required to dive the LCG 16 wreck. However, given its depth of 49 meters and intermediate difficulty, divers should possess advanced or technical diving certifications appropriate for deep wreck diving. As a war grave, respectful conduct and adherence to responsible diving practices are paramount.
What are the typical current and visibility conditions at the LCG 16 dive site near Freshwater West?
The provided data does not include specific information regarding typical current or visibility conditions at the LCG 16 dive site. For accurate and up-to-date conditions, it is always best to consult local dive operators in Cornwall & Devon who can provide real-time insights for safe and enjoyable diving.