PERSIER - Cornwall & Devon

If you’re diving the south coast, the *Persier* is absolutely one to prioritise. We love a good big wreck, and at 122m, this former Belgian cargo steamer delivers. She was sunk by a mine in 1945 and now rests upright, mostly intact, though time and trawlers have taken their toll on the superstructure. Dropping down onto the main deck at 26m, you’re often greeted by schools of pouting, sometimes so thick they obscure the bow. It’s a proper swim-through wreck, with cavernous holds you can penetrate if you're comfortable. Our favourite part is exploring the stern, where the prop shaft alley is still accessible and often shelters conger eels the size of a diver's thigh. Keep an eye out for dogfish tucked into crevices and the occasional lobster peering out from under plating. Visibility here can be hit or miss; a good slack tide on a neap will give you the best chance of decent light, otherwise it's an atmospheric, torch-lit dive. This one suits experienced wreck divers who appreciate the history and the sheer scale of a major shipwreck.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.284916, -3.968667
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
26m

Marine Protected Area: Erme Estuary

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 PERSIER

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 PERSIER

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 PERSIER dive site and what are the depths of its key features?
The PERSIER dive site has a maximum depth of 26 meters. As a wreck dive, its key features include the remains of a steam ship vessel, measuring 121.9m x 15.8m, which was built in 1918. Divers can explore the structure of this impressive vessel, including its triple expansion engine.
What kind of marine life and wreck features can divers expect to see on the PERSIER wreck?
Divers exploring the PERSIER wreck can expect to encounter the substantial remains of a steam ship vessel, which was sunk on February 11, 1945. Key features include its impressive dimensions of 121.9m x 15.8m and the visible components of its triple expansion engine. While specific marine life is not detailed, wrecks typically attract a variety of local aquatic species.
How difficult is the PERSIER dive site, and is it suitable for beginner divers?
The PERSIER dive site is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive. Due to its classification as a "Dangerous wreck" and its depth of 26 meters, it is not suitable for beginner divers. Divers should possess appropriate experience and training for wreck diving.
What is the best time of year or tidal condition to dive the PERSIER wreck for optimal conditions?
Specific information regarding the best time of year or optimal tidal conditions for diving the PERSIER wreck is not available in the current data. For general guidance on diving in the Cornwall & Devon region, it is always recommended to consult local dive operators and when to dive resources for the most current conditions.
What scuba diving certifications are required or recommended to dive the PERSIER wreck?
Given the PERSIER wreck's intermediate difficulty, its depth of 26 meters, and its classification as a dangerous wreck, an Advanced Open Water certification or equivalent is highly recommended. Furthermore, a Wreck Diver Specialty certification would be beneficial to safely navigate and explore this historical site. Always dive within your certification limits and comfort level.
What are the typical currents and visibility conditions like at the PERSIER dive site?
Information regarding the typical currents and visibility conditions at the PERSIER dive site is not available in the provided data. For the most accurate and up-to-date conditions, it is always best to consult with local dive operators in the Cornwall & Devon area before planning your dive.