PERONNE - Cornwall & Devon

The Peronne is, in our opinion, one of the more evocative wreck dives off the Cornish coast. She’s not quite as intact as some, but that’s part of her charm – she was torpedoed, after all. At 29 metres, it’s a good depth for experienced wreck divers looking for a bit of history. We love picking out the twisted metal plates and feeling the sheer scale of a ship that went down in wartime, though the stern, with its impressive triple-expansion engine, is our favourite section. What you'll find today is a genuine historical relic, now softened by time and the encroaching sea life. Ling often peer out from under plates, and conger eels are usually lurking in the darker recesses. The whole site has a quiet, solemn feel to it, especially when the light filters down through the green Cornish water. We’d suggest diving her on a slack tide to really appreciate the layout; otherwise, the current can make navigating the debris field a bit of a workout. Keep an eye out for dogfish resting on the sand nearby, too.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.471300, -3.380500
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
29m

Marine Protected Area: Lyme Bay and Torbay

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 PERONNE

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 PERONNE

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 Peronne wreck dive site?
The Peronne wreck dive site reaches a maximum depth of 29 meters. This makes it an ideal dive for those comfortable with moderate depths.
What can divers expect to see when exploring the Peronne wreck?
Divers exploring the Peronne can expect to encounter the remains of a significant steam ship vessel, torpedoed during WW1 on September 1, 1917. This impressive wreck, measuring 97.5m x 12.8m, features a triple expansion engine and offers a fascinating glimpse into maritime history. As a "dangerous wreck," it presents an intriguing exploration for experienced divers.
How difficult is the Peronne wreck dive, and what level of experience is recommended?
The Peronne wreck dive is classified as intermediate difficulty. Due to its nature as a "dangerous wreck," it is recommended for divers with a good level of experience and appropriate training for wreck diving.
What is the best time of year to dive the Peronne wreck for good conditions?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year to dive the Peronne wreck for good conditions. For general guidance on seasonal diving in the United Kingdom, please consult our When to Dive section.
What scuba diving certifications are required to dive the Peronne wreck?
The specific scuba diving certifications required to dive the Peronne wreck are not detailed in the provided data. However, given its 29-meter depth and "intermediate" difficulty, an Advanced Open Water certification or equivalent is generally recommended for such wreck dives. Always check with local dive operators for precise requirements.
What are the typical visibility and current conditions at the Peronne dive site?
The provided data does not include information regarding the typical visibility or current conditions at the Peronne dive site. Divers should always consult local dive centers or guides for up-to-date conditions before planning their dive.