wreck

Log This Dive

PORTSDOWN

The wreck of the ferry Portsdown, formerly the Ryde, is a fantastic shallow water dive off the Cornish coast. We love a wreck that tells a story, and this one, scuttled in 1941 to block an enemy invasion, certainly does. At a maximum depth of 2m, it's less about dramatic plunges and more about intimate exploration. Paddling over the remains, you can still make out the distinctive paddle steamer hull, the two boilers standing proud, now encrusted with plumose anemones swaying gently in the surge. Look closely for spider crabs scuttling amongst the plates, and shoals of juvenile pollack darting through the rusted structure. It’s a site that rewards patience and a keen eye, perfect for a long, relaxed snorkel or a shallow dive on a calm day. We’d suggest going at slack water to avoid strong currents, making it easier to appreciate the history and the surprisingly rich life found in such shallow water.