NEWHOLM - Cornwall & Devon

The Newholm is one of those wrecks that just delivers. We’ve logged a few dives on her now, and each time, she shows us something new. Lying at 29 metres, she’s a big steamship, sunk by a torpedo in 1917. What we really love is how intact parts of her are. You can drop onto the stern and follow the line of the deck forward, past huge winches draped in dead man's fingers. The boilers are a real focal point, sitting proud and usually swarming with pollack. Visibility can be a bit of a lottery in these waters, but when it's good, say 10 metres, the sheer scale of the Newholm is impressive. We often find conger eels tucked into the darker recesses, their heads poking out from under twisted metal plates. Take a good torch; there are plenty of nooks and crannies for spider crabs and plump lobsters to hide in. The current here can pick up, so we’d suggest timing your dive for slack water, about an hour either side of high or low tide, to really make the most of exploring this grand old lady. She’s a fantastic dive for anyone comfortable at depth and keen on proper wreck penetration.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.209568, -3.642167
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
29m

Marine Protected Area: Skerries Bank and Surrounds

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 NEWHOLM

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 NEWHOLM

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 Newholm dive site and what are the depths of its key features?
The Newholm dive site has a maximum depth of 29m. While specific depths for its key features are not detailed, divers can explore the remains of a steam ship vessel, including its three boilers, triple expansion engine, and single shaft. This impressive wreck measures 100.9m x 14.6m, offering extensive areas to discover within its overall depth.
What kind of marine life and wreck features can divers expect to see when exploring the Newholm?
When exploring the Newholm, divers can expect to encounter significant wreck features from the steam ship built in 1899. These include its three boilers, a triple expansion engine of 293 NHP, and a single shaft, all part of the 100.9m x 14.6m vessel. Information regarding specific marine life sightings at this site is not available in the current data, but you can learn more about general marine species in our wildlife database.
How challenging is the Newholm dive site, especially considering its currents and overall conditions?
The Newholm dive site is classified as intermediate difficulty and is further noted as a "Dangerous wreck." While specific details on current conditions are not provided, its classification suggests that divers should be prepared for potentially challenging environments. Divers should approach this site with appropriate experience and caution due to its nature.
What is the best time of year or tidal condition to dive the Newholm for optimal visibility and calmer currents?
Information regarding the best time of year or specific tidal conditions for optimal visibility and calmer currents at the Newholm dive site is not available in the provided data. For general guidance on planning your dives, you may wish to consult our When to Dive section. Always check local dive conditions before planning your trip to this Cornwall & Devon wreck.
What scuba diving certifications are recommended or required to safely dive the Newholm shipwreck?
Given the Newholm dive site's maximum depth of 29m and its intermediate difficulty, an Advanced Open Water certification or equivalent is highly recommended. As it is also classified as a "Dangerous wreck," specialized training such as a Wreck Diver certification would be beneficial for safely navigating its features. Always ensure your equipment and training are suitable for the conditions.
What are the typical current conditions and visibility like at the Newholm dive site?
Specific details regarding typical current conditions and visibility at the Newholm dive site are not provided in the available data. Divers planning to visit this intermediate difficulty wreck should consult local dive operators for the most up-to-date information on conditions. The site is located in Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom.