SKAALA - Cornwall & Devon

The Skaala, a steamship torpedoed in 1917, sits upright at 39m, mostly intact. We've spent time tracing her length, noting the two large boilers and the triple-expansion engine still visible midships. It’s a good deep wreck for those with some UK diving experience, often drawing schooling pollack and conger eels into its shadowy holds. You'll find plenty of plumose anemones coating the structure, a real splash of colour against the steel. While there aren't many species recorded officially, we've always seen something interesting tucked away.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.196053, -3.828200
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
39m

Marine Protected Area: Start Point to Plymouth Sound & Eddystone

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 SKAALA

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 SKAALA

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 Skaala dive site and the top of the wreck?
The Skaala dive site has a maximum depth of 39m. While the exact depth of the top of the wreck is not specified in the provided data, divers can expect the structure to rise from the seabed. This deep wreck offers an intriguing exploration opportunity for appropriately certified divers.
What marine life and wreck features can divers expect to see at the Skaala dive site?
Divers exploring the Skaala wreck can expect to encounter the remains of a steam ship vessel, built in 1906 and sunk in 1917. Key features include its two boilers, a triple expansion engine, and a single shaft, all within its substantial dimensions of 69.8m x 10.7m. While specific marine life is not detailed in the provided information, wrecks often become artificial reefs, attracting various species over time, which you can learn more about in our wildlife database.
How challenging is the Skaala dive site, considering its depth and currents?
The Skaala dive site is classified as having an intermediate difficulty, primarily due to its maximum depth of 39m. While specific current conditions are not detailed, divers should be prepared for potential challenges associated with deeper wreck diving. This classification suggests it is suitable for divers with appropriate training and experience.
When is the best time to dive the Skaala wreck to account for tidal currents?
The provided data does not specify the best time to dive the Skaala wreck to account for tidal currents. For optimal conditions, it is always recommended to consult local dive operators or tide charts specific to the Cornwall & Devon area. You can find general information about planning your dives on our When to Dive page.
What diving certifications are typically required to dive the Skaala wreck?
Given the Skaala wreck's maximum depth of 39m and its classification as an intermediate dive, divers would typically require at least an Advanced Open Water certification. For a more comprehensive and safer experience on a wreck of this nature, a Wreck Diver specialty certification is highly recommended. Always ensure your training aligns with the dive's demands and your equipment is suitable for deeper dives.
What are the typical current conditions and visibility at the Skaala dive site?
The provided data does not include specific details regarding the typical current conditions or visibility at the Skaala dive site. As with any wreck dive, conditions can vary, so it is always advisable to check with local dive centers or guides in Cornwall & Devon for the most up-to-date information before planning your dive.