LOUIS SHIED - Cornwall & Devon

The Louis Shied is a cracker of a shore dive, and we rate it highly for anyone wanting a taste of wreck diving without the boat trip. It sits in a surprisingly sheltered bay, usually making for a pretty calm entry. You’re right on top of it almost immediately. The whole thing is incredibly broken up, scattered across the seabed in a chaotic jumble of metal plates, ribs, and machinery. It’s not one of those intact wrecks you can penetrate, but that's part of its charm. We love picking through the debris, spotting huge spider crabs hunkering down in crevices and the occasional dogfish tucked away under a twisted beam. Schools of pollack often swirl around the larger sections, shimmering in the shafting light. The depth is fantastic, just 3 metres, so you get incredible bottom time. Our top tip: dive it on a calm day with good sun, the light play through the kelp and across the metal is beautiful then. It’s perfect for new wreck divers or photographers wanting to practice their skills in benign conditions.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.261932, -3.862917
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
3m

Marine Protected Area: Start Point to Plymouth Sound & Eddystone

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 LOUIS SHIED

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 LOUIS SHIED

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

How deep is the Louis Sheid wreck dive site?
The Louis Sheid wreck dive site is quite shallow, with a maximum depth of 3 meters. This makes it an accessible dive for many, allowing for extended bottom times to explore the historical steam ship.
What marine life and wreck features can divers expect to see at the Louis Sheid?
Divers exploring the Louis Sheid can expect to see the impressive features of a large steam ship vessel, measuring 127.4m x 17.1m. The site is classified as a wreck showing a portion of its hull or superstructure, offering a unique historical exploration opportunity. While specific marine life isn't detailed in the provided data, wrecks often become artificial reefs attracting various local species.
Is the Louis Sheid wreck dive suitable for beginner divers, or is it considered difficult?
The Louis Sheid wreck dive is classified as intermediate difficulty. While its shallow depth of 3 meters might seem appealing, the intermediate rating suggests it's best suited for divers with some experience rather than absolute beginners.
What is the best time of year or tide state to dive the Louis Sheid for optimal conditions and visibility?
The provided data for the Louis Sheid dive site does not specify the best time of year or tide state for optimal conditions and visibility. For general guidance on planning your dives, you might find helpful information on our When to Dive resource.
What scuba diving certifications are required to dive the Louis Sheid wreck?
Given the Louis Sheid wreck dive is rated as intermediate difficulty, divers should possess at least an Advanced Open Water certification or equivalent experience. While no specific certifications are listed, an intermediate rating typically implies skills beyond entry-level open water diving.
What are the typical current conditions and potential hazards at the Louis Sheid dive site?
The provided data for the Louis Sheid dive site does not detail typical current conditions or potential hazards. As with any wreck dive, it's always advisable to consult local dive operators for up-to-date information on site conditions and safety precautions before planning your dive.