SLAVA - Cornwall & Devon

The SLAVA, formerly known as WYNACRE, then TAFNA, sits upright in around 25 metres of water off the coast of Cornwall. This 112.5-metre steamship, built in 1911 and sunk by a mine in 1940, is quite broken up towards the bow and stern, but the midships section, particularly around the three large boilers and triple-expansion engine, offers plenty to explore. We've seen conger eels tucked into the dark recesses and lobsters in the cargo holds. The site is best dived on a slack tide, otherwise, the currents can make it a challenging dive, but it’s a solid pick for experienced wreck enthusiasts keen on a substantial piece of maritime history.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
51.333065, -3.627100
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
25m

Marine Protected Area: Monknash 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 SLAVA

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 SLAVA

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 depth range for diving the SLAVA wreck?
The SLAVA wreck is typically dived at a depth of 25 meters. This makes it an accessible dive for those with intermediate experience looking to explore a historical steamship.
What marine life and wreck features can divers expect to encounter at the SLAVA dive site?
Divers exploring the SLAVA wreck can expect to encounter significant features of a steamship vessel, including its three boilers and a triple expansion engine of 404 NHP. The wreck measures an impressive 112.5m in length and 15.2m in width, offering a substantial structure to explore. Information regarding specific marine life encounters at this site is not available in our current data.
What is the difficulty level of diving the SLAVA wreck, and what experience is recommended?
The SLAVA wreck is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive and is noted as a dangerous wreck. Divers should possess appropriate experience and training for wreck diving at 25 meters, ideally with advanced certifications and experience in similar conditions.
When is the best season or time of year to dive the SLAVA wreck?
Our current data does not specify the best season or time of year to dive the SLAVA wreck. For general guidance on diving in the Cornwall & Devon region, we recommend consulting broader resources on when to dive in the United Kingdom.
What specific diving certifications are needed to dive the SLAVA wreck?
Given the SLAVA wreck's depth of 25 meters, its intermediate difficulty, and classification as a dangerous wreck, divers should hold at least an Advanced Open Water certification or equivalent. Specialized wreck diving certifications are highly recommended to safely navigate and explore this significant historical site.
What are the usual currents, visibility, and water temperature like at the SLAVA dive site?
Information regarding the usual currents, visibility, and water temperature at the SLAVA dive site is not available in our current dataset. Divers planning a trip should consult local dive operators for the most up-to-date conditions.