PRIMO ? - Cornwall & Devon

The Primo, what a wreck. This old steamship, sunk back in 1918, isn't one of those pristine, upright behemoths. Instead, you'll find her well-broken, spread out across the seabed at 26 metres. We love how the sheer force of the years has sculpted her, transforming her hull plates into twisted, metal abstract art. It’s a proper rummage, a fascinating hunt for recognisable features amongst the debris. We’d suggest heading out on a neap tide for the best conditions, as currents can pick up. Look for the triple expansion engine, it’s often the most intact section and a great focal point. The hold sections are largely collapsed but still offer some overhead exploration for suitably experienced divers. You’ll spend your time here exploring the scattered pieces, spotting conger eels lurking in shadowed corners and colourful jewel anemones clinging to every surface. This is a dive for those who appreciate history and enjoy piecing together a story from the scattered fragments beneath the waves.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.289482, -5.464933
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
26m

Marine Protected Area: St Gothian Sands

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 PRIMO ?

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 PRIMO ?

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 depth range for scuba diving at PRIMO?
The typical depth for scuba diving at the PRIMO dive site is 26 meters. As a wreck dive, this depth allows divers to explore the distributed remains of the steam ship vessel.
What marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at PRIMO dive site?
At the PRIMO dive site, divers can expect to explore the fascinating underwater features of a steam ship wreck. This vessel, measuring 65.7m x 10.2m, is classified as distributed remains, offering an intriguing structure for exploration. While specific marine life isn't detailed, wrecks commonly attract various species, making it a potential habitat for local aquatic creatures.
Is PRIMO considered a difficult dive site, or is it suitable for beginner divers?
The PRIMO dive site is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive. This means it is not typically suitable for beginner divers who may lack the experience or specific certifications required for such conditions. Divers should possess appropriate training and experience for intermediate wreck dives.
What is the best time of year or day to dive at PRIMO for optimal conditions?
Information regarding the best time of year or day to dive at PRIMO for optimal conditions is not available in the provided data. For general guidance on dive planning, you might consult DivePlnr's When to Dive section.
What scuba diving certifications are required to dive at PRIMO?
Given that PRIMO is an intermediate difficulty wreck dive, divers would typically need at least an Advanced Open Water certification or a specialty wreck diving certification. This ensures divers have the necessary skills and experience to safely navigate the 26-meter depth and explore the distributed remains of the steam ship.
What are the typical currents and visibility conditions like at PRIMO?
The provided data does not include specific information on the typical currents or visibility conditions at the PRIMO dive site. Divers should always check local conditions and forecasts before planning their dive.