RFA HUNGERFORD (POSSIBLY) - Cornwall & Devon

The RFA Hungerford, or what we strongly suspect is her, offers a proper deep wreck dive off the Devon coast. Dropping down to 36 metres, it’s a dive for those comfortable with depth and a bit of history. We love the sheer scale of her; at 128 metres long, you’re never going to see it all on one dive, which just makes you want to come back. When we’ve been down, the bow section is always our favourite, rising impressively from the seabed. You can often make out the massive anchor chains, and it’s here that conger eels like to poke their heads out from the darker recesses. Visibility can be a typical Cornish mixed bag, but on a good day, the light filters down, illuminating the anemones and dead man’s fingers that blanket the structure. Look closely for edible crabs scuttling in the shadows and lobsters tucked into any available crevice. It’s a rewarding dive for advanced wreck enthusiasts keen on exploring a significant piece of maritime history.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.511750, -0.660250
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
36m

Marine Protected Area: Offshore Overfalls

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 RFA HUNGERFORD (POSSIBLY)

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 RFA HUNGERFORD (POSSIBLY)

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 maximum depth of the SS Hungerford wreck for divers?
The maximum depth of the RFA Hungerford (Possibly) wreck for divers is 36 meters. This makes it an ideal dive for those with appropriate deep diving certifications. Its substantial dimensions of 128m x 17.1m offer a significant area to explore.
What marine life and historical artifacts can be seen when diving the SS Hungerford wreck?
The provided data specifically describes the RFA Hungerford (Possibly) as a steam ship vessel, built in 1913 and sunk in 1918. While the wreck itself is a significant historical artifact, details on specific marine life or other artifacts are not available in our current database for this site. Wrecks often become artificial reefs over time, attracting various species, so divers may encounter local marine inhabitants.
What is the typical difficulty level for diving the SS Hungerford wreck?
The typical difficulty level for diving the RFA Hungerford (Possibly) wreck is classified as intermediate. This suggests that divers should have some experience beyond basic open water certification to safely explore this site. Its depth of 36 meters also contributes to this classification.
When is the best time of year to dive the SS Hungerford wreck for optimal conditions?
Our current data for the RFA Hungerford (Possibly) wreck does not specify the best time of year for optimal diving conditions. We recommend checking local dive operators in Cornwall & Devon for up-to-date information on seasonal visibility and currents. You can also explore our When to Dive guide for general tips on planning your trip.
What scuba diving certifications are required to explore the SS Hungerford wreck?
Given the RFA Hungerford (Possibly) wreck's maximum depth of 36 meters and its intermediate difficulty rating, divers would typically need at least an Advanced Open Water certification or equivalent. For deeper exploration or potential wreck penetration, specialized certifications like Deep Diver or Wreck Diver would be highly recommended to ensure safety and proficiency.
What are the usual current and visibility conditions at the SS Hungerford dive site?
The provided data for the RFA Hungerford (Possibly) dive site does not include specific details on usual current or visibility conditions. These factors can vary greatly depending on weather and tides in Cornwall & Devon. It's always best to consult with local dive centers for the most current site conditions before planning your dive.