PETERSHAM - Cornwall & Devon

The Petersham is one of those wrecks that really sticks with you. Dropping down onto her, you get a real sense of her scale, even at 39 metres. She’s a big old steamship, sunk back in 1918, and what’s left is a tangled but coherent mess of steel that’s been thoroughly claimed by the sea. We love exploring her two huge boilers – they’re a fantastic focal point, often absolutely buzzing with conger eels peering out from every crevice. You’ll find walls of plumose anemones, especially on the more sheltered sections, and the swim-throughs, where parts of the superstructure have collapsed, are just wide enough to feel adventurous without being too tight. Our favourite is moving along the deck plates, imagining the scale of her in her working life, and seeing schools of pollock dart between the ribs. Visibility here can be variable, but on a good day, when the sun penetrates a little, the colours are surprisingly rich. It’s definitely one for experienced wreck divers comfortable with depth and the occasional surge. We’d suggest going in late summer or early autumn for the best chance of decent conditions.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.418118, -5.296600
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
39m

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 PETERSHAM

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 PETERSHAM

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 diving depth at Petersham?
The typical diving depth at the Petersham dive site is 39 meters. This depth makes it an intriguing site for divers looking to explore a deeper wreck, offering a significant challenge and rewarding experience.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can be found at Petersham?
The primary underwater feature at Petersham is the impressive wreck of a steam ship vessel, measuring 103.3m x 14m. Sunk on May 5, 1918, this non-dangerous wreck provides a fascinating structure for exploration. While specific marine life details are not provided in the data, wrecks commonly become artificial reefs, attracting various species over time.
How challenging is diving at Petersham for different skill levels?
Diving at Petersham is classified as intermediate difficulty. This means it is suitable for divers who have some experience beyond entry-level certifications and are comfortable with deeper dives and potential wreck exploration. Divers should ensure they have the appropriate training and experience for a 39-meter wreck dive.
What is the best time of year to dive at Petersham for optimal conditions?
Information regarding the best time of year to dive at Petersham for optimal conditions, such as specific water temperatures or visibility, is not available in the provided data. Divers interested in seasonal conditions should consult local dive operators or the When to Dive section for general guidance on the Cornwall & Devon region.
What scuba diving certifications are required to dive at Petersham?
Given the typical diving depth of 39 meters and its intermediate difficulty, divers planning to explore Petersham would generally require an advanced open water certification or equivalent. This ensures divers have the necessary training and experience for deeper wreck dives. Always check with local dive centers for specific certification requirements.
What are the typical currents and water conditions like at the Petersham dive site?
Details regarding the typical currents and specific water conditions at the Petersham dive site are not included in the provided data. As with any wreck dive, conditions can vary, and divers should always consult local dive operators for the most current information before planning their dive.