LCT 293 - Cornwall & Devon

The LCT 293 is a properly rewarding deep wreck dive, sitting upright at 50 metres, which is exactly how we like them. Sunk in 1944 on its way from Omaha Beach, this landing craft has a real story etched into its hull, a heavy piece of history beneath the waves. Dropping down, the bow is often the first thing to materialise out of the green, gradually revealing the full 48-metre length of the vessel. We love the way its ramp still points upwards, a ghostly reminder of its purpose. It’s an ideal wreck for penetration if you’re appropriately trained and equipped; the hold is surprisingly open, letting you explore the ribs of the structure. Even if you stay outside, the entire wreck is smothered in plumose anemones, their white tentacles swaying gently in the current, creating a living carpet over the metal. Look closer among them and you’ll often spot feathery squat lobsters tucked into crevices, or a resident conger eel peering from a pipe. Visibility can be a bit of a gamble, but on a good day, the scale of the LCT is quite something. This site suits experienced divers comfortable with depth and looking for a wreck with some serious character.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.100666, -0.751500
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
50m

Marine Protected Area: Dolphin Head Highly Protected Marine Area

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 LCT 293

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 LCT 293

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