SOLOR (STERN PART) (PROBABLY) - Cornwall & Devon

The Solor’s stern section, resting shallow in Oxwich Bay, is less about grand structure and more about discovery. Torpedoed in 1945, she was beached here, a casualty of convoy HX332. Now, at just four metres, we find her plates and ribs forming a low-profile home for the usual suspects of the Cornish coast. Look for crabs tucked into crevices, small pollock darting between the frames, and anemones clinging to any solid surface. It’s a gentle dive, perfect for newer wreck enthusiasts or as a second, relaxed dip, offering a tangible link to wartime history without demanding deep technical skills.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
51.550117, -4.146750
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
4m

Marine Protected Area: Great Tor (Three Cliff Bay)

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 SOLOR (STERN PART) (PROBABLY)

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 SOLOR (STERN PART) (PROBABLY)

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 at SOLOR (STERN PART) (PROBABLY)?
The dive site SOLOR (STERN PART) (PROBABLY) is quite shallow, with a typical depth of 4 meters. This makes it an accessible site for many divers and allows for extended bottom times. It's an ideal depth for exploring the historical wreck.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at SOLOR (STERN PART) (PROBABLY)?
The primary underwater feature at SOLOR (STERN PART) (PROBABLY) is a fascinating wreck. This site is the stern part of a tanker vessel, torpedoed in 1945 and subsequently beached, showing portions of its hull or superstructure. While specific marine life isn't detailed, wrecks typically attract a variety of local fish and invertebrates, making it an interesting habitat to explore for marine life.
How difficult is the diving at SOLOR (STERN PART) (PROBABLY) for recreational divers?
Diving at SOLOR (STERN PART) (PROBABLY) is classified as intermediate difficulty for recreational divers. While the depth is shallow at 4 meters, the wreck environment may present unique challenges. Divers should possess a good level of comfort and experience with wreck diving or similar conditions.
What is the best time of year or season to dive at SOLOR (STERN PART) (PROBABLY) for optimal conditions?
Unfortunately, the provided data does not specify the best time of year or season for optimal diving conditions at SOLOR (STERN PART) (PROBABLY). We recommend checking local dive reports and forecasts for the Cornwall & Devon area closer to your planned dive date. For general guidance on seasonal diving, you can visit our When to Dive section.
Are there any specific diving certifications or experience levels required to dive at SOLOR (STERN PART) (PROBABLY)?
Given the intermediate difficulty rating for SOLOR (STERN PART) (PROBABLY), divers should have appropriate certification and experience. While not explicitly stated, an Advanced Open Water certification or a Wreck Diver specialty certification would be beneficial for navigating the wreck. It's always wise to dive within your training and comfort limits, especially when exploring historical wrecks.
What are the typical current conditions and visibility like at the SOLOR (STERN PART) (PROBABLY) dive site?
The provided data does not include specific information regarding typical current conditions or visibility at the SOLOR (STERN PART) (PROBABLY) dive site. As with any coastal wreck in Cornwall & Devon, conditions can vary significantly based on weather and tides. It's crucial to consult local dive operators or recent dive reports for up-to-date information before planning your trip to ensure safe and enjoyable diving.