PLASTON - Cornwall & Devon

Plaston is a standout site for a very specific kind of diver, and we love it for its moody, evocative feel. This isn't a deep dive, sitting at a maximum of 11 metres, but what it lacks in depth it more than makes up for in atmosphere. We're talking about a genuine historical wreck here, and the age shows in the way the ship’s structure has softened, becoming part of the seabed. What you'll experience is a relatively intact, though flattened, steam trawler, Plaston. Her engine room is still identifiable, and you can swim through areas where the hull has peeled back, creating swim-throughs that feel like exploring a forgotten attic. Light filters down in muted greens and blues, making the metal glow. Conger eels are a common sight, tucked into the dark recesses, and the wreck itself is absolutely smothered in jewel anemones, hydroids, and dead man’s fingers, making it a vibrant, living sculpture. It's a fantastic spot for photographers who appreciate the interplay of history and marine growth. We’d suggest diving it on a slack tide for the best visibility and to really take your time exploring the nooks and crannies. If you enjoy a wreck with a story, one that feels truly ancient and reclaimed by the ocean, Plaston is our pick.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
49.393500, -0.898000
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
11m

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 PLASTON

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 PLASTON

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