QUARNERO - Cornwall & Devon

The *Quarnero* is a proper piece of history resting at 38 metres, and we love diving it. She's a big steamer, over 100 metres long, and lies broken but still very much a ship. Dropping down, the sheer scale of the hull is what really hits you first; it’s a dark, imposing wall covered in plumose anemones, their white tentacles waving gently in the surge. We always try to get there when the slack tide is properly slack, otherwise, you're fighting a fair old push around the deeper sections. Our favourite part is exploring the stern, where the triple-expansion engine still stands proud, a massive hunk of iron colonised by dead man’s fingers. You'll find conger eels peering out from gaps in the plates, and often, schools of pollack circling the higher points. It’s a proper dive for experienced wreck heads who appreciate the weight of maritime history and don’t mind a bit of a chill.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.352030, -5.343650
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
38m

Marine Protected Area: Godrevy Head to St Agnes

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 QUARNERO

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 QUARNERO

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 kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see when diving in Quarnero Bay?
When diving the Quarnero, divers will primarily explore the impressive remains of a steam ship vessel, measuring 100.7m x 14.6m, which sank on March 4, 1918. This significant wreck is the main underwater feature. While specific marine life details for this site are not provided in the data, wrecks often become vibrant artificial reefs attracting various species. For general marine life information, you can consult our wildlife database.
What are the typical depths for popular dive sites in Quarnero, including shipwrecks and wall dives?
The Quarnero wreck is found at a depth of 38m. This site is classified as a wreck dive. Information regarding other popular dive sites or wall dives in the immediate Quarnero area is not specified in the provided data.
How difficult is diving in Quarnero, and are there specific sites recommended for beginner, intermediate, or advanced divers?
Diving the Quarnero wreck is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive. This makes it suitable for divers with some experience. Specific recommendations for beginner or advanced sites in this immediate area are not detailed in the available information.
What is the best time of year to dive in Quarnero for optimal weather, water temperature, and visibility?
Information regarding the best time of year for optimal weather, water temperature, and visibility for diving the Quarnero is not available in the provided data. We recommend checking our When to Dive section for general guidance or consulting local dive operators for current conditions.
What scuba diving certifications are required to access the various dive sites and wrecks in Quarnero?
Specific scuba diving certification requirements for accessing the Quarnero wreck are not detailed in the provided information. Given its 38m depth and intermediate difficulty, an Advanced Open Water Diver certification or equivalent would typically be recommended. Always consult with local dive centers for precise certification requirements before planning your dive.
What are the typical current conditions and visibility levels divers might encounter when exploring Quarnero's dive sites?
The provided data does not include specific information on typical current conditions or visibility levels for the Quarnero dive site. Divers should always check with local dive operators immediately prior to their dive for the most up-to-date information on conditions in Cornwall & Devon.