SILVONIA - Cornwall & Devon

The Silvonia, a steamship that sank back in 1935, now rests in the shallows off the Cornish coast, making it a cracking dive for a calm day. At just six metres deep, it’s a brilliant site for newer divers or those looking for an extended bottom time without needing advanced certs. The wreck itself is a bit broken up but still recognisable, with parts of the hull and superstructure home to plenty of wrasse and blennies darting between the metalwork. We've seen some decent lobsters tucked into crevices here, too. It’s a proper piece of local history, easy to get to, and a good reminder that even shallow wrecks have stories.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
49.150665, -2.192450
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
6m

Marine Protected Area: Jersey Coast

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 SILVONIA

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 SILVONIA

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 maximum depth for recreational diving at the SILVONIA dive site?
The typical maximum depth for recreational diving at the SILVONIA dive site is 6 meters. This shallow depth makes it quite accessible for many divers. However, its classification as a "Dangerous wreck" indicates that careful planning and appropriate experience are still essential.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to encounter at SILVONIA?
Divers at SILVONIA can expect to explore the remains of a significant steam ship vessel, measuring 64.3m in length and 10.1m in width. This wreck, which sank on May 6, 1935, provides an artificial reef structure. While specific marine life is not detailed in the provided data, such wrecks typically attract various local species.
How challenging is diving at SILVONIA, and is it suitable for beginner divers?
Diving at SILVONIA is classified as having an intermediate difficulty. While the maximum depth is a shallow 6 meters, its designation as a "Dangerous wreck" suggests it may not be suitable for absolute beginner divers. Divers should possess adequate experience and be comfortable with wreck diving environments.
What is the best time of year to dive SILVONIA for optimal conditions and marine sightings?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year to dive SILVONIA for optimal conditions or marine sightings. For general guidance on diving in the Cornwall & Devon region, we recommend consulting our When to Dive section. Local dive operators can also provide up-to-date seasonal insights.
Are there any specific diving certifications required to dive at the SILVONIA site?
The provided data does not explicitly state specific diving certifications required for the SILVONIA site. Given its "intermediate" difficulty and "Dangerous wreck" classification, it is highly advisable for divers to have at least an Advanced Open Water certification. A Wreck Diver specialty certification would also be beneficial for safe and informed exploration of the site.
What are the typical current strengths and underwater visibility conditions at SILVONIA?
The provided data does not include information regarding typical current strengths or underwater visibility conditions at the SILVONIA dive site. Divers planning to visit this Cornwall & Devon wreck should consult local dive centers. They can offer the most current and accurate reports on environmental conditions.