SALSETTE II - Cornwall & Devon

The Salsette II is a big ship, sitting upright in around 43 metres of water, so it's one for those comfortable with deeper diving. She went down in 1917, and even after all these years, you can still make out the twin shafts and her six boilers. We often find the wreck draped in plumose anemones, and conger eels are a regular sight in the deeper sections. It’s a proper expedition dive, offering plenty to explore across her 134-meter length, especially when the visibility plays along.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.495250, -2.717350
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
43m

Marine Protected Area: South of Portland

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 SALSETTE II

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 SALSETTE II

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 SALSETTE II dive site and what is the shallowest part of the wreck?
The maximum depth of the SALSETTE II dive site is 43 meters. While the deepest point is known, the specific shallowest part of this impressive 134.1m long steamship wreck is not detailed in the available information.
What kind of marine life and historical artifacts can divers expect to see on the SALSETTE II wreck?
Divers exploring the SALSETTE II wreck can expect to encounter significant historical artifacts from this 1908-built steamship. Key features include its six boilers, twin quadruple expansion engines, twin shafts, and a 4.7-inch gun. While the wreck undoubtedly hosts marine life, specific details about species are not provided in the current data.
How challenging is the SALSETTE II dive site, and is it suitable for all experience levels?
The SALSETTE II dive site is classified as intermediate difficulty. This means it is not suitable for all experience levels and is best undertaken by divers who have gained experience beyond entry-level certifications, possessing good buoyancy control and comfort with deeper wreck diving.
When is the best time to dive the SALSETTE II wreck to experience optimal conditions?
Specific information regarding the best time to dive the SALSETTE II wreck for optimal conditions is not detailed in the current data. We recommend checking local dive centers or our When to Dive section for general guidance on diving in the Cornwall & Devon region.
What diving certifications are recommended or required to safely dive the SALSETTE II?
Given the SALSETTE II dive site's maximum depth of 43 meters and its intermediate difficulty, certifications such as Advanced Open Water Diver, Deep Diver, and potentially Wreck Diver are highly recommended or required. These certifications ensure divers have the necessary training and experience to safely explore such a deep and complex wreck.
What are the typical currents and visibility conditions at the SALSETTE II dive site?
The provided data for the SALSETTE II dive site does not include specific details about typical currents or visibility conditions. Divers planning to visit this wreck should consult local dive operators for the most up-to-date information on prevailing conditions.