SPHENE (PROBABLY) - Cornwall & Devon

The Sphene, or what we’re pretty sure is the Sphene, lies at a comfortable 20 metres, making it a good target for anyone comfortable with basic wreck diving. This old steamship, sunk in 1946, is well broken up but still recognisable as a vessel. You'll find two large boilers standing proud amidst the scattered plating, usually swarming with tommy ruffs and a few inquisitive conger eels peeking from the darker recesses. The triple-expansion engine is still there, a fascinating jumble of metal now completely encrusted with jewel anemones. It’s a solid dive, offering enough structure to explore without being overly complex, and the marine life, particularly the smaller schooling fish, makes a decent showing.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.602615, -4.886133
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
20m

Marine Protected Area: Pentire Peninsula

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 SPHENE (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 SPHENE (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 SPHENE (PROBABLY)?
The SPHENE (PROBABLY) wreck is situated at a depth of 20 meters. This makes it accessible for divers comfortable with moderate depths. Always ensure you are within your certified depth limits.
What kind of marine life and underwater topography can divers expect to see at SPHENE (PROBABLY)?
The SPHENE (PROBABLY) is a fascinating steam ship wreck, measuring 57.7m x 9.2m, which sank on February 5, 1946. While specific marine life details are not provided, wrecks typically serve as artificial reefs, attracting various species. Divers can explore the structure of this vessel, including its two boilers and triple expansion engine, which often become habitats for local marine life.
What is the difficulty level of diving at SPHENE (PROBABLY), and is it suitable for beginners?
Diving at the SPHENE (PROBABLY) wreck is classified as intermediate difficulty. Given its classification as a "Dangerous wreck," it is not recommended for beginners. Divers should possess the necessary experience and training to safely navigate this site.
What is the best time of year or season to dive SPHENE (PROBABLY) for optimal conditions and marine encounters?
Specific information regarding the best time of year or season for optimal conditions and marine encounters at the SPHENE (PROBABLY) wreck is not available in the provided data. For general guidance on seasonal diving, you might consult our When to Dive section.
What scuba diving certifications are required or recommended to dive at SPHENE (PROBABLY)?
While specific certification requirements are not detailed, given the intermediate difficulty and its classification as a "Dangerous wreck," divers should ideally possess advanced certifications, such as a wreck diving specialty. It is always recommended to dive within your training limits and ensure you have appropriate equipment and experience for such sites.
What are the prevailing currents and general water conditions (e.g., visibility, temperature) at SPHENE (PROBABLY)?
Information regarding prevailing currents, visibility, and water temperature at the SPHENE (PROBABLY) wreck is not available in the provided context. Divers should always check local conditions and forecasts before planning their dive to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.