LUCISTON - Cornwall & Devon

Luciston sits off the coast, a proper chunk of history at just 10 metres. We love this wreck for its accessibility and the sheer volume of metal to explore. Sunk on Christmas Eve in 1917, this steamship is now home to an impressive collection of local marine life. Think schools of pollack flitting through the old superstructure, lobsters tucked into every crevice, and the occasional dogfish patrolling the sandy seabed nearby. It's a fantastic dive for those looking to get up close with a substantial wreck without the deeper technical demands. You can easily spend a full hour tracing the outline of the hull, peeking into the twin boilers, or simply watching the life unfold around the twisted plates. Visibility can be a bit variable, as it often is in these parts, but even on an average day, the sheer scale of Luciston makes for a rewarding dive. Best dived at slack water to avoid any significant current.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.800200, -1.302367
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
10m

Marine Protected Area: Calshot Marshes

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 LUCISTON

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 LUCISTON

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 maximum depth of the Luciston Collier wreck dive in Malta?
The Luciston wreck dive, located off Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, reaches a maximum depth of 10 meters. This shallow depth makes it accessible for many divers exploring this historic steamship, which is not located in Malta.
What marine life and specific wreck features can divers expect to see on the SS Luciston?
Divers exploring the SS Luciston wreck can expect to encounter significant features of this 96.3m x 11.6m steamship, including its two boilers and triple expansion engine. While specific marine life details are not provided in our current data for this site, wrecks often attract a variety of local species.
How difficult is the Luciston Collier wreck dive, and what level of diving experience is required?
The Luciston wreck dive is classified as intermediate in difficulty. Divers should have a suitable level of experience for wreck diving, as it is categorized as a "Dangerous wreck" and requires careful planning.
What is the best time of year to dive the SS Luciston wreck for optimal conditions?
Our current data for the SS Luciston wreck does not specify the best time of year for optimal diving conditions. For general guidance on seasonal diving in the region, please refer to our When to Dive section.
What specific diving certifications and permits are necessary to dive the Luciston Collier wreck?
While our current data does not specify unique certifications or permits for the Luciston wreck, divers should possess appropriate certifications for intermediate-level wreck diving. Given its classification as a "Dangerous wreck," advanced training in wreck penetration or similar specialties may be advisable.
What are the typical current and visibility conditions at the Luciston Collier dive site?
Our current data for the Luciston dive site does not provide specific details on typical current or visibility conditions. Divers planning a trip should consult local dive operators for the most up-to-date information regarding these factors before their dive.