LIVONIA - Cornwall & Devon

The Livonia. Now, she’s a proper wreck dive, sitting upright at 35 metres, a real deep history lesson off the coast of Cornwall. We’ve always had a soft spot for these First World War wrecks, you can almost feel the stories she holds. Dropping down, you’ll find her surprisingly intact, still holding much of her shape despite the torpedo that put her down in 1917. Her two boilers are a big draw, huge cylinders that jut out, often draped in plumose anemones, their white tentacles waving gently in the current. We love exploring the triple expansion engine, it’s a tangible link to her past, a reminder of the power that once pushed her through these waters. Look closely and you’ll spot nudibranchs, often the colourful jewel anemones clinging to the metalwork, and the dark recesses always seem to hold a few inquisitive conger eels, peering out from their makeshift homes. Visibility can be a typical Cornish affair, sometimes a crisp 15 metres, other days a moody 5, but even in murkier conditions, her sheer size makes for an atmospheric dive. Our top tip? Hit her on a slack tide, otherwise, you’ll be working for that depth. This is a dive for experienced wreck enthusiasts who appreciate the history as much as the marine life.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.258926, -3.555362
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
35m

Marine Protected Area: Skerries Bank and Surrounds

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 LIVONIA

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 LIVONIA

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 diving depth at the Livonia dive site?
The typical diving depth at the Livonia dive site is 35 meters. This depth makes it an interesting exploration for divers with appropriate training and experience.
What kind of marine life or underwater features can divers expect to see at Livonia?
Divers visiting Livonia can expect to explore the fascinating wreck of a steam ship vessel, which sank on December 3, 1917. This substantial wreck, measuring 86.9m x 12.8m, features notable structures like two boilers and a triple expansion engine. While specific marine life is not detailed in the provided information, wrecks commonly serve as vibrant habitats for diverse marine life.
How challenging are the diving conditions at Livonia for different skill levels?
The diving conditions at the Livonia dive site are classified as intermediate. This indicates that divers should possess a good level of experience and comfort with conditions such as deeper depths and potentially varying currents or visibility. It's an excellent site for experienced recreational divers looking to expand their skills.
What is the best time of year to go scuba diving at Livonia for optimal conditions?
The provided information does not specify the best time of year to go scuba diving at Livonia for optimal conditions. For general guidance on seasonal diving, you might consult our When to Dive section, keeping in mind that conditions in the United Kingdom can vary.
What scuba diving certifications are required or recommended to dive at Livonia?
Considering the Livonia dive site has an intermediate difficulty and a depth of 35 meters, an Advanced Open Water Diver certification or equivalent is highly recommended. This certification ensures divers are adequately trained for deeper dives and the specific challenges associated with wreck diving.
What are the typical water currents and visibility like at the Livonia dive site?
Specific information regarding the typical water currents and visibility at the Livonia dive site is not available in the provided data. As with any dive, it is always advisable to consult with local dive centers or guides for the most current conditions before planning your dive.