PROSPERITY (STERN SECTION) - Cornwall & Devon

Alright, the *Prosperity* stern section. Now this one, we love it for a quick, impactful dive. Sitting in just six metres of water off the Lizard, it’s not about depth or exotic corals, but about immersion in history and the sheer quantity of local marine life. You’ll drop onto a substantial piece of metal, the stern of a 98-metre motor vessel that went down in '74 after engine trouble. What you get here is a proper wreck experience without the deco. We always find the propeller and rudder surprisingly intact. They just loom out of the murk, covered in dead man's fingers and anemones. Look for the massive schooling pollack darting through the structure, and conger eels peeking out of every crevice. Our pick for a sunny afternoon, when the light really penetrates and brings out the colours on the encrusted steel. It’s perfect for open water divers looking for a genuine wreck dive that’s accessible and full of character. Just keep an eye on the tides; a slack water dive makes all the difference here.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
49.473750, -2.641383
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
6m

Marine Protected Area: Gouliot Caves and Headland, Sark

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 PROSPERITY (STERN SECTION)

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 PROSPERITY (STERN SECTION)

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 diving the PROSPERITY (STERN SECTION)?
The PROSPERITY (STERN SECTION) is a relatively shallow dive, with a typical depth of 6 meters. This makes it an accessible wreck site for many divers. Its shallow nature allows for longer bottom times, enhancing the exploration experience.
What kind of marine life and wreck features can divers expect to see at PROSPERITY (STERN SECTION)?
The PROSPERITY (STERN SECTION) is a significant wreck dive, featuring the remains of a motor vessel built in 1945 and sunk in 1974. Divers can explore the substantial structure of this wreck, which measures 98.8m x 13.7m. While specific marine life isn't detailed, wrecks commonly attract various local species, making it an interesting site for marine life observation.
How challenging is the PROSPERITY (STERN SECTION) dive, and what skill level or certifications are recommended?
The PROSPERITY (STERN SECTION) is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive. Due to its classification as a Dangerous wreck, divers should possess appropriate experience and certifications for wreck diving. It's important to be prepared for the conditions and potential hazards associated with such a site.
What are the best months or seasons to dive PROSPERITY (STERN SECTION) for optimal conditions and visibility?
The provided data does not specify the best months or seasons for diving the PROSPERITY (STERN SECTION) for optimal conditions and visibility. For general guidance on when to dive in the United Kingdom, please refer to our When to Dive section. Local dive operators can provide the most current information on conditions.
Are there any specific diving certifications required to explore the PROSPERITY (STERN SECTION)?
Given that the PROSPERITY (STERN SECTION) is an intermediate difficulty dive and classified as a Dangerous wreck, specific certifications beyond basic open water are highly recommended. Divers should ideally hold advanced certifications, particularly those related to wreck diving, to safely explore this site. Always check with local dive centers for precise requirements and any necessary permits.
What are the typical current and water conditions, including visibility, at the PROSPERITY (STERN SECTION) dive site?
The provided data does not detail the typical current, water conditions, or visibility at the PROSPERITY (STERN SECTION) dive site. Conditions can vary greatly depending on weather and tides in Cornwall & Devon. It is always advisable to consult with local dive operators or guides for the most up-to-date information before planning your dive.