SARAH ANDERSON (POSSIBLY) - Cornwall & Devon

The Sarah Anderson, or what we strongly suspect is her, offers a fantastic jaunt into Cornwall's maritime past. At just 11m, this sailing vessel, sunk in 1886, is surprisingly intact in places. We’ve found her ribs rise quite dramatically from the seabed, creating perfect hideouts for conger eels and schools of bib. It’s a site that really suits divers who appreciate a good historical narrative and aren’t afraid of a bit of a current, which can pick up here. The wreck really supports a lot of local life, with wrasse darting in and out of the broken decking, making it feel less like a graveyard and more like a bustling artificial reef.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.645935, -4.771950
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
11m

Marine Protected Area: Pentire Point - Widemouth

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 SARAH ANDERSON (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 SARAH ANDERSON (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 'Sarah Anderson' shipwreck dive site near Trebarwith Strand, Cornwall?
The 'Sarah Anderson' shipwreck dive site, located off the coast of Cornwall, has a maximum depth of 11 meters. This relatively shallow depth makes it accessible for many divers interested in exploring this historic wreck.
What kind of marine life and remaining wreckage can divers expect to see at the 'Sarah Anderson' shipwreck?
Divers exploring the Sarah Anderson shipwreck can expect to see the remains of a sailing vessel, measuring 52.7m x 8.5m, which sank on October 17, 1886. The wreck is classified as a "Dangerous wreck," indicating significant structural integrity issues or hazards. While specific marine life is not detailed in our current data, wrecks in Cornwall often attract local fish and invertebrates.
How challenging is the 'Sarah Anderson' shipwreck dive, considering its location off the coast of Cornwall?
The 'Sarah Anderson' shipwreck dive is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive. Additionally, the wreck itself is categorized as a "Dangerous wreck," which suggests potential hazards that divers should be aware of. Divers should possess appropriate experience and training for intermediate wreck diving in the Cornwall area.
What are the best times of year or tidal conditions to dive the 'Sarah Anderson' wreck for optimal visibility and safety?
Our current data for the Sarah Anderson shipwreck does not specify the best times of year or tidal conditions for optimal visibility and safety. However, for diving in Cornwall generally, it's advisable to consult local dive operators for up-to-date information on tides and weather, which significantly impact underwater conditions. You can find more general information on when to dive on DivePlnr.
What diving certifications are typically required to safely dive the 'Sarah Anderson' shipwreck in Cornwall?
Given that the Sarah Anderson shipwreck is rated as an intermediate difficulty dive, divers would typically need at least an Advanced Open Water certification or equivalent. Furthermore, considering it's a "Dangerous wreck," specialized wreck diving training and experience are highly recommended to safely navigate its features. Always check with local dive centers in Cornwall for specific requirements.
What are the typical current strengths and underwater conditions like at the 'Sarah Anderson' shipwreck site?
Our available data for the Sarah Anderson shipwreck does not detail typical current strengths or specific underwater conditions. As with any dive site in Cornwall, conditions can vary significantly with weather and tides. It is always best to consult with local dive operators or guides for the most current information on currents and site conditions before planning your dive.