LCT 381 - Cornwall & Devon

LCT 381 is a proper deep dive, sitting at 52 metres, so it’s one for the experienced tech divers among us. This landing craft vessel was torpedoed in 1943 by German E-boats, a piece of wartime history resting upright on the seabed. We love the way the twin two-pounder pom-poms are still quite distinct, giving you a real sense of its former purpose. Descent can be dark, especially if you catch it on an overcast day, but once you hit the deck, the atmosphere shifts. The wreck is surprisingly intact for its age and depth. We’ve had some cracking dives here, navigating through the holds where you can still imagine vehicles being carried. Look out for conger eels tucked into every dark nook and cranny, and the occasional ling patrolling the deeper sections. It’s a dive that rewards careful exploration, revealing more detail the longer you spend with it. We’d suggest hitting it on a slack tide for the best conditions; visibility can be temperamental, but on a good day, it’s truly impressive.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.390335, -3.023733
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
52m

Marine Protected Area: East of Start Point

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 381

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 381

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 LCT 381 dive site?
The LCT 381 dive site is a deep wreck dive. Divers can expect to explore this fascinating landing craft vessel at a depth of 52 meters. This depth makes it suitable for experienced divers with appropriate certifications.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at LCT 381?
At the LCT 381 dive site, divers will primarily encounter the impressive underwater features of a historic wreck. This landing craft vessel, sunk on February 27, 1943, measures 58.5m x 9.4m and still carries two 2PDR Pompoms, offering a unique glimpse into its past. While specific marine life isn't detailed, wrecks typically attract various species over time, making it a potential habitat for local fauna.
How difficult is the LCT 381 dive site, and is it suitable for all certification levels?
The LCT 381 dive site is classified as having an intermediate difficulty. Given its depth of 52 meters, it is not suitable for all certification levels. Divers should possess advanced certifications and experience with deep diving to safely explore this historic wreck.
What is the best time of year or season to dive LCT 381 for optimal conditions and visibility?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year or season to dive LCT 381 for optimal conditions and visibility. For general guidance on dive planning, you might consult our When to Dive section, but local dive operators for Cornwall & Devon would offer the most current advice.
Are there any specific scuba diving certifications required to dive at the LCT 381 site?
While specific certifications are not explicitly listed, the LCT 381 dive site is rated as intermediate difficulty and reaches a depth of 52 meters. Therefore, divers will require advanced or deep diving certifications to safely and responsibly explore this wreck. It is always recommended to check with local dive centers in Cornwall & Devon for their specific requirements.
What are the common current and water conditions experienced when diving LCT 381?
The provided data does not include specific information regarding common current or water conditions experienced when diving LCT 381. For up-to-date details on local conditions, it is best to consult with dive operators familiar with the Cornwall & Devon area. They can provide valuable insights into typical currents and visibility for this deep wreck dive.