PLACIDAS FAROULT - Cornwall & Devon

The Placidus Faroult isn’t about depth, that’s for sure. At a maximum of two metres, this is a true shallow-water wreck, perfect for a long, slow dive or even a snorkel if the conditions are right. We love it for its accessibility and the way the light plays through the kelp, illuminating the scattered remains of the old sailing vessel. Sunk in a storm on New Year’s Eve, 1940, it’s now a collection of ribs and hull plates, spread across the seabed. You’ll find a surprising amount of life here, despite the shallow depth. Look closely in the crevices and under the overhanging kelp fronds for blennies, crabs, and nudibranchs. The kelp itself often holds shoals of juvenile pollack, darting between the stalks. Our favourite way to dive the Placidus Faroult is on a calm, sunny day, when the visibility opens up and you can really appreciate the historical context – imagining the ship caught in that winter storm. It’s a gentle exploration, ideal for newer divers or those who prefer to take their time and really soak in the atmosphere of a submerged piece of history. Just be mindful of surge if there’s any swell.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.227260, -3.775061
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
2m

Marine Protected Area: Salcombe to Kingsbridge 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 PLACIDAS FAROULT

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 PLACIDAS FAROULT

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