SIRACUSA - Cornwall & Devon

The Siracusa, an iron steamship sunk off the Lizard in 1897, offers a proper wreck dive for those comfortable with a bit of depth. At 27 metres, she’s well-colonised now, with plenty of plumose anemones swaying on her plates. We often find conger eels tucked into the darker recesses, and crabs scuttling over the debris. It’s a site for divers who appreciate history and don't mind the often-moody visibility that comes with diving in this part of the world. Expect a good rummage around an honest old steamship.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.440285, -5.111333
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
27m

Marine Protected Area: Newquay and the Gannel

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 SIRACUSA

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 SIRACUSA

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 are the typical diving depths and maximum depths for scuba diving in Siracusa's dive sites?
For the SIRACUSA wreck dive site in Cornwall & Devon, divers can expect a typical depth of 27 meters. This specific wreck, a steam ship vessel sunk in 1897, offers a consistent depth profile for exploration. The site is an 83.5m x 10.3m iron vessel.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see when diving in the Plemmirio Marine Protected Area near Siracusa?
The provided data for the SIRACUSA dive site, located in Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, does not include information about marine life or underwater features. Furthermore, there is no mention of the Plemmirio Marine Protected Area in relation to this specific dive site. The data only describes the SIRACUSA as an 83.5m x 10.3m iron steam ship wreck, sunk in 1897.
How challenging are the dive sites in Siracusa, and are there options suitable for beginner divers?
The SIRACUSA wreck dive site in Cornwall & Devon is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive. Due to its classification as a 'Dangerous wreck' and its depth of 27 meters, it is not typically suitable for beginner divers. Divers should possess appropriate certifications and experience for wreck diving.
What is the best time of year to go scuba diving in Siracusa for optimal conditions and marine encounters?
The provided data for the SIRACUSA dive site in Cornwall & Devon does not specify the best time of year for optimal diving conditions or marine encounters. For general guidance on seasonal diving, you may wish to consult our When to Dive resource. We recommend checking local dive operators for current conditions.
What scuba diving certifications are required to explore the various dive sites around Siracusa?
To explore the SIRACUSA wreck, which is rated as an intermediate difficulty dive, divers typically need at least an Advanced Open Water certification or equivalent. Given its depth of 27 meters and classification as a 'Dangerous wreck', specialized wreck diving training may also be highly recommended for a safe and enjoyable experience. Always check with local dive centers for specific requirements.
What are the typical underwater currents and visibility conditions like at Siracusa's dive sites?
The provided data for the SIRACUSA dive site in Cornwall & Devon does not include specific details regarding typical underwater currents or visibility conditions. These factors can vary greatly depending on local weather, tides, and recent marine activity. It is always advisable to consult local dive operators for the most up-to-date information on site conditions before planning your dive.