LOLA (POSSIBLY) - Cornwall & Devon

The *Lola* offers a genuinely atmospheric dive, especially when the light filters down through the Cornish green water. She went down in 1929 after hitting The Manacles, carrying a cargo of tar, which you can still occasionally see solidified around her. We love how intact the stern section is, with the rudder and propeller still clearly visible, a real testament to her sudden end. Dropping down to 25 metres, you’ll find the bow fairly broken up, but the midships and stern hold together well. The single boiler is a prominent feature, often swarming with pollack and wrasse. We’ve had some cracking encounters here with conger eels tucked into the deeper recesses and lobsters peeking out from under plating. Visibility here can vary wildly, so we always check the tides and aim for slack water on a neap tide for the best chance of a clear run. It’s a proper historical wreck dive, best for those comfortable with deeper UK conditions and who appreciate the stories these old ships tell.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.569233, -0.666500
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
25m

Marine Protected Area: Offshore Overfalls

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 LOLA (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 LOLA (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 at the LOLA dive site?
The LOLA dive site has a typical depth of 25 meters. This makes it an ideal dive for those comfortable with moderate depths and looking to explore a fascinating wreck.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can be expected at the LOLA dive site?
The LOLA dive site is primarily a wreck dive, featuring the remains of a steam ship vessel that sank in 1929. Divers can explore its structure, including its single boiler and compound expansion engine, which are part of the 48.8m x 7.3m wreck. While specific marine life isn't detailed in the provided data, wrecks often serve as artificial reefs, attracting local species.
How challenging is diving at LOLA, and is it suitable for beginners?
Diving at the LOLA site is classified as intermediate difficulty, making it unsuitable for beginners. Furthermore, the site is designated as a "Dangerous wreck," which necessitates appropriate experience and training for safe exploration.
What is the best time of year or season to dive at LOLA for optimal conditions?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year or season to dive at the LOLA site for optimal conditions. For up-to-date information on seasonal recommendations and local conditions, divers should consult local dive operators or refer to general when-to-dive resources.
What scuba diving certifications are required to dive at the LOLA dive site?
Given the LOLA dive site's intermediate difficulty rating, divers should possess certifications such as Advanced Open Water Diver or equivalent. Additionally, as it is classified as a "Dangerous wreck," specialized wreck diving training may be highly recommended or required by local operators to ensure safety.
What are the typical currents and underwater conditions like at the LOLA dive site?
The provided data does not include specific information regarding typical currents or general underwater conditions at the LOLA dive site. Divers should always check with local dive centers or guides for current conditions, visibility, and other environmental factors before planning their dive.