LULONGA (POSSIBLY) - Cornwall & Devon

The Lulonga, originally the Brabro, then the Knottingly, is a lovely piece of history, resting upright at 28 metres. We love an upright wreck, it just feels more substantial, more like a ship still. Dropping down, you’ll find two large boilers, easily identifiable even with the growth, and her triple expansion engine. It’s a proper steamer, solid and still very much a vessel rather than a pile of scrap. Visibility here can be a bit of a gamble, often around 5 to 10 metres, but sometimes it opens up beautifully to 15 metres. When that happens, the scale of the wreck really shines through. We’ve seen conger eels tucked into every nook and cranny, and the decks are covered in dead man’s fingers, which glow in your torch beam. It’s a cool, atmospheric dive, definitely one for wreck enthusiasts who appreciate a good historical context. Best enjoyed on a slack tide, otherwise, you'll be flying past.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.664207, -0.285700
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
28m

Marine Protected Area: Kingmere

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 LULONGA (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 LULONGA (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 maximum depth for diving the AV Ulonga shipwreck?
The maximum depth for diving the AV Ulonga shipwreck, officially known as the LULONGA (POSSIBLY), is 28 meters. This depth makes it an interesting wreck dive in the waters off Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom.
What marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at the AV Ulonga dive site?
Divers exploring the AV Ulonga dive site will primarily encounter the fascinating underwater features of the steam ship vessel, the LULONGA (POSSIBLY). This wreck, measuring 59.4m x 9.9m, features two boilers and a triple expansion engine. While specific marine life is not detailed in the provided information, wrecks commonly become artificial reefs, attracting diverse ecosystems over time; you can learn more about common species in our wildlife database.
How difficult is the AV Ulonga dive site, particularly concerning its technical aspects?
The AV Ulonga dive site is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive. Furthermore, it is designated as a "Dangerous wreck," indicating potential hazards such as structural instability or entanglement risks that divers should be prepared for. This classification underscores the need for appropriate training and caution when exploring this site.
What is the best time of year or specific conditions to dive the AV Ulonga shipwreck?
The provided data for the AV Ulonga shipwreck does not specify the best time of year or particular conditions for diving. Generally, for wreck dives in Cornwall & Devon, divers often prefer periods with calmer seas and better visibility. For more general advice on optimal diving conditions, please consult our When to Dive resource.
What diving certifications are required or highly recommended for diving the AV Ulonga?
Considering the AV Ulonga shipwreck reaches a depth of 28 meters and is rated as intermediate difficulty and a "Dangerous wreck," an Advanced Open Water certification is highly recommended. For enhanced safety and to properly explore the wreck's features, a specialized wreck diving certification would be extremely beneficial.
What are the typical current conditions at the AV Ulonga dive site, and how do they impact the dive?
The provided data for the AV Ulonga dive site does not include information regarding typical current conditions or their potential impact on the dive. As currents can significantly affect dive safety and enjoyment, it is always advisable to consult local dive centers for current conditions before planning your dive to this 28-meter deep wreck.