ORFORDNESS - Cornwall & Devon

Orfordness. Now this one, she’s a proper piece of history down there. We’re talking about a WWI torpedo victim, sunk by U-60 back in 1918. Lying in about 32 metres, she’s a big steamship, over 100 metres long, which means there’s plenty to explore without feeling like you’re doing laps. When the visibility is on your side, which for us in the UK means managing expectations but still hoping, you can really make out the scale of her. The triple expansion engine is a favourite spot of ours, often draped in plumose anemones, and you’ll find conger eels tucked into every dark crevice. We’ve seen huge shoals of pouting hanging around the bridge structure, almost like they’re guarding the old girl. It’s a dive that rewards slow exploration; take your time, poke around the hold, and imagine what it was like for those sailors. This is a dive for those who appreciate maritime history and enjoy the quiet thrill of a deep, solid wreck. Just keep an eye on the currents, they can be a bit frisky out there sometimes.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.408894, -5.198257
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
32m

Marine Protected Area: Kelsey Head

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 ORFORDNESS

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 ORFORDNESS

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 range for diving the SS Orfordness wreck?
The SS Orfordness wreck is typically found at a depth of 32 meters. This makes it an accessible dive for those with appropriate training and experience in Cornwall & Devon.
What kind of marine life and wreck features can divers expect to see at the Orfordness dive site?
Divers exploring the SS Orfordness wreck can expect to encounter the remains of a substantial steam ship vessel, measuring 100.9m x 14.3m. Key features include its triple expansion engine and single shaft, remnants of its torpedoing by U-60 in 1918. Information regarding specific marine life at this site is not provided in the current data.
How challenging is the Orfordness wreck dive, and what level of experience is recommended?
The Orfordness wreck dive is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive. Divers should possess an appropriate level of experience and training for wreck diving at a depth of 32 meters, ensuring a safe and enjoyable exploration of this historic site.
What is the best time of year and tidal condition to dive the SS Orfordness for optimal visibility and safety?
Information regarding the best time of year and specific tidal conditions for optimal visibility and safety at the SS Orfordness dive site is not available in the provided data. For general guidance on planning your dives, you might consult DivePlnr's When to Dive section.
What scuba diving certifications are required or highly recommended for diving the Orfordness wreck?
Given the SS Orfordness wreck's depth of 32 meters and intermediate difficulty, divers should hold certifications such as Advanced Open Water Diver or a Wreck Diver specialty. These certifications ensure divers have the necessary skills and experience for safe wreck exploration.
What are the typical currents and visibility conditions at the Orfordness dive site?
Details regarding the typical currents and visibility conditions at the Orfordness dive site are not available in the provided data. Divers are always advised to check local conditions and forecasts before planning their dive to the Orfordness wreck.