PARMELIA - Cornwall & Devon

The Parmelia is a cracking little site, tucked away near Cremyll Point in Devonport, not far from Plymouth. This isn’t your deep, dramatic wreck dive; it’s shallow, accessible, and honestly, a lot of fun. What we love about the Parmelia is its history – she was a ship instrumental in establishing Western Australia, then tragically caught fire and sank in 1839. You won’t find towering superstructures here, but rather the beautiful, scattered remains of a wooden sailing vessel, now completely colonised by the local sea life. Diving the Parmelia feels like uncovering a secret. We’ve spent many a slack water dive here, poking around the ribs and timbers, imagining the ship's past. Look closely, and you’ll spot colourful jewel anemones clinging to the wood, vibrant against the dark timbers. Dogfish often rest in the sand nearby, and if you’re patient, small wrasse flit in and out of the crevices. Our favourite time to dive it is on a sunny day with good visibility, often an hour either side of slack high tide, when the light penetrates the water and really brings the wreck to life. It’s perfect for newer divers looking for a rewarding wreck experience without the intimidation of depth or strong currents, or for experienced divers just wanting a relaxed potter amongst history.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.360577, -4.177803
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
0m

Marine Protected Area: Western King

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 PARMELIA

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 PARMELIA

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 Parmelia (D9 Dredge) dive site?
The Parmelia dive site is listed with a depth of 0m. This indicates it is an extremely shallow site, potentially intertidal or partially exposed, and divers should be aware of these conditions. For more details on this unique dive site, further local information may be beneficial.
What marine life and wreck features can divers expect to see at the Parmelia (D9 Dredge) wreck?
The Parmelia is a historic sailing vessel that sank in 1839, and it is classified as a wreck showing "any portion of hull or superstructure." Divers can expect to explore the structural remains of this vessel. The provided data does not specify any particular marine life, but local conditions in Cornwall & Devon often support various temperate species.
How difficult is the Parmelia (D9 Dredge) dive site, and is it suitable for beginner divers?
The Parmelia dive site is rated as intermediate difficulty. This suggests it may present challenges that are not typically suitable for absolute beginner divers. Divers should have some experience and comfort in varying conditions before attempting to explore this wreck.
What is the best time of year to dive the Parmelia (D9 Dredge) for optimal conditions and visibility?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year to dive the Parmelia for optimal conditions and visibility. For the most accurate and up-to-date information on seasonal conditions in Cornwall & Devon, it is always best to consult local dive centers or check when to dive resources for the region.
What scuba diving certifications are required or recommended to dive the Parmelia (D9 Dredge) wreck, especially for wreck penetration?
Given the Parmelia is an intermediate difficulty wreck dive, divers should possess at least an Advanced Open Water certification or equivalent. For any potential wreck penetration, specialized wreck diving certifications and appropriate equipment are highly recommended and often required to ensure safety and proper technique.
What are the typical current and visibility conditions at the Parmelia (D9 Dredge) dive site?
The provided data does not include specific information on the typical current or visibility conditions at the Parmelia dive site. Divers planning to visit this wreck should consult local dive operators in Cornwall & Devon for up-to-date reports on conditions before planning their dive.