N G PETERSEN - Cornwall & Devon

The N G PETERSEN, for us, is classic Cornish wreck diving. She’s a decent size at 72.9m, an old steamship that went down in 1918 after tangling with another vessel, the SS Siri. We love how accessible she is, sitting upright at 19m, which means decent bottom time and usually good light penetration even on a greyer day. When you drop down, the wreck feels substantial. You’ll fin over plates and beams, maybe glimpse the stern or bow depending on where your shot lands. What makes her a standout for us isn't just the history, but the way marine life has completely taken over. Big schools of bib swarm the superstructure, swirling around you like a silver cloud, and conger eels are everywhere, peeking out from every crevice and collapsed section. We’ve spotted dogfish tucked into the sand nearby, too. Our favourite thing is to just drift along the main deck, letting the gentle surge rock you as you watch the light filter through the shoals of fish. It’s a proper atmospheric dive, best on a neap tide for minimal current, and brilliant for anyone who enjoys exploring a solid piece of maritime history colonised by some lively local inhabitants.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.118786, -5.051736
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
19m

Marine Protected Area: Swanpool

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 N G PETERSEN

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 N G PETERSEN

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 of the N.G. Petersen dive site?
The N.G. Petersen dive site typically lies at a depth of 19 meters. This depth makes it an interesting exploration for divers looking to experience a historical wreck.
What kind of marine life and wreckage can divers expect to see at the N.G. Petersen site?
Divers exploring the N.G. Petersen can expect to encounter the remains of a substantial steam ship vessel. Sunk in 1918, this wreck measures 72.9m x 11m, offering a significant structure to explore. While specific marine life details are not provided, wrecks often become artificial reefs, attracting various species over time; you can learn more about common marine life in the region on our wildlife database.
How challenging is the N.G. Petersen wreck dive, and is it suitable for beginner divers?
The N.G. Petersen wreck dive is classified as intermediate difficulty and is considered a Dangerous wreck. Due to these classifications, it is not suitable for beginner divers. Divers should possess the necessary experience and certifications for wreck diving to safely explore this site.
What are the best times of year to dive the N.G. Petersen wreck for optimal conditions?
Specific information regarding the best times of year for optimal diving conditions at the N.G. Petersen wreck is not provided in our current data. For general guidance on seasonal diving in the United Kingdom, please consult our When to Dive section.
Are there any specific diving certifications required to dive the N.G. Petersen wreck?
Given that the N.G. Petersen is classified as an intermediate difficulty and a Dangerous wreck, divers are strongly advised to hold appropriate advanced or specialty wreck diving certifications. These certifications ensure you have the necessary skills and knowledge to safely navigate the complexities of such a site. Always ensure your equipment is suitable for challenging wreck dives.
What are the usual water temperatures, visibility, and current conditions at the N.G. Petersen dive site?
Our current data for the N.G. Petersen dive site does not include specific details on usual water temperatures, visibility, or current conditions. We recommend checking with local dive operators in Cornwall & Devon for the most up-to-date information before planning your dive.