MYSTERYTU - Cornwall & Devon

The MYSTERYTU isn’t your typical big, deep wreck, and that’s precisely why we love it. This isn't about penetration or grand history; it’s a delightful, accessible little sailing vessel, roughly 8.8 metres long, that ran aground between Teignmouth and Dawlish back in 1976. What makes it special is its character. It’s sitting right there, shallow enough that you can often spot parts of it poking out at low tide, making it a fantastic shore dive when the conditions are calm. We’d suggest planning your dive for slack water, preferably on a high tide, to maximise your time with it. The MYSTERYTU is a perfect site for newer divers or those who just want a relaxed potter, exploring at a leisurely pace. You’ll find the hull offers plenty of nooks and crannies for crabs and lobsters, and often small schools of pollack will hang around the remnants of the mast. While it might not have the drama of a deep-sea freighter, we’ve spent many happy hours here just observing the subtle life that has made this humble yacht its home, feeling the gentle push of the tide and enjoying the simplicity of it all.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.567230, -3.467880
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
0m

Marine Protected Area: Dawlish Warren

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 MYSTERYTU

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 MYSTERYTU

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 range at Mystery Lake Scuba Park?
The provided data for the MYSTERYTU wreck indicates a depth of 0m. This suggests an extremely shallow site, possibly even partially exposed, or that 0m represents the minimum depth of the wreck. Divers should be prepared for very shallow conditions when exploring this unique historical site.
What kind of unique underwater attractions and marine life can be found at Mystery Lake Scuba Park?
The primary underwater attraction at the MYSTERYTU site is a fascinating wreck, a sailing vessel that sank on October 3, 1976. This 8.8m long vessel is classified as a wreck showing any portion of its hull or superstructure, offering an interesting historical exploration. While the data doesn't specify marine life, wrecks often become artificial reefs, attracting various species which you can learn more about in our wildlife database.
Is Mystery Lake Scuba Park considered a challenging dive site for recreational divers?
Yes, the MYSTERYTU dive site is classified as having an intermediate difficulty level for recreational divers. This suggests that while it's not exclusively for advanced divers, it may present certain challenges that require a good level of experience and skill. Divers should be prepared for conditions typical of an intermediate wreck dive.
When is Mystery Lake Scuba Park typically open for recreational diving, and what are the best seasonal conditions?
The provided data for the MYSTERYTU dive site does not specify typical opening times or the best seasonal conditions for recreational diving. For up-to-date information on accessibility and optimal diving periods, it's recommended to consult local dive operators or resources specific to the Cornwall & Devon region. You can also find general information on when to dive on DivePlnr.
What level of scuba certification is needed to dive at Mystery Lake Scuba Park?
Given that the MYSTERYTU dive site is rated as intermediate difficulty, divers should possess at least an Advanced Open Water certification or equivalent experience. This level of certification typically prepares divers for the potential challenges associated with intermediate sites, including wreck diving. Always ensure your equipment and training match the demands of the dive.
What are the usual water conditions, like visibility and temperature, at Mystery Lake Scuba Park?
The provided data for the MYSTERYTU dive site does not include specific details regarding usual water conditions such as visibility or temperature. These conditions can vary significantly based on location and time of year in the Cornwall & Devon area. It is always best to check local dive reports or with a dive center before planning your trip to the United Kingdom.