NORTHFIELD (POSSIBLY) - Cornwall & Devon

Northfield, a steamship that went down in 1918, is one of those wrecks that just keeps giving. We love that it’s still very much a ship, not just a pile of plates. You drop onto the stern, which is surprisingly intact, and then follow the hull forward. The two huge boilers are a real highlight, sitting upright and completely encrusted with plumose anemones – they really glow under a torch. It’s a dive for those who appreciate history and don't mind a bit of a rummage. We've seen conger eels snaking through the collapsed midships and lobsters tucked into every crevice. Visibility here can be a bit variable, typical for the Channel, so pick your day. Slack water is key for a relaxed dive, otherwise, you'll be working against a decent push. The depth of 23m means it’s accessible to most PADI Advanced Open Water divers, but we'd suggest bringing a bit of wreck experience for the best enjoyment.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.977432, -4.613300
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
23m

Marine Protected Area: Welcombe

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 NORTHFIELD (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 NORTHFIELD (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 are the typical depths for diving at the Northfield dive site?
The Northfield dive site, a fascinating steam ship wreck, offers diving opportunities at a depth of 23 meters. This depth allows divers to explore the remains of the vessel, which was built in 1901 and sunk in 1918. It's an excellent opportunity to explore a piece of history in the Cornwall & Devon region.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at Northfield?
Divers visiting the Northfield site can expect to explore the impressive underwater features of a steam ship vessel, measuring 87.8m x 14.6m. This wreck, built in 1901, includes two boilers and a triple expansion engine, providing a rich habitat for various marine life. For more information on common marine species found on wrecks, visit our wildlife database.
How challenging is diving at Northfield, and is it suitable for beginner divers?
Diving at the Northfield site is classified as an intermediate difficulty, making it unsuitable for beginner divers. This is due to its classification as a "Dangerous wreck," which requires a certain level of experience and skill to navigate safely. Divers should be comfortable with wreck diving techniques and conditions.
What is the best time of year or season to dive at Northfield for optimal conditions?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year or season to dive at Northfield for optimal conditions. For general guidance on seasonal diving in the Cornwall & Devon region, we recommend consulting local dive operators. You can also find more information on general diving seasons on our When to Dive page.
Are there any specific certifications or experience levels required to dive at Northfield?
Given its classification as an intermediate difficulty and a "Dangerous wreck," divers should possess appropriate certifications and experience levels for wreck diving. This ensures safety and allows for a more enjoyable exploration of the 87.8m long steam ship. It is always advisable to dive within your training and experience limits when exploring sites like Northfield.
What are the typical water conditions and currents like at the Northfield dive site?
The available data does not provide specific information regarding the typical water conditions or currents at the Northfield dive site. Divers planning a trip to this United Kingdom wreck should consult local dive centers for the most up-to-date information on conditions. Always check local forecasts before your dive.