SPYROS (POSSIBLY) - Cornwall & Devon

Dropping onto the Spyros, you’re met with the ghostly outline of an iron steamship, resting upright at 31 metres. It’s a proper historical piece, built in 1880, and while time and the sea have taken their toll, you can still trace the ribs and plating of her hull. Schools of pollack often swirl through the deeper sections, and conger eels find plenty of nooks to call home within the twisted metal. It’s a dive for those who appreciate maritime history and a good hunt for shy critters in less-visited spots off the Cornish coast.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.611782, -1.580781
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
31m

Marine Protected Area: The Needles

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 SPYROS (POSSIBLY)

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 SPYROS (POSSIBLY)

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 and maximum depth for diving the SS Spyros wreck?
The SS Spyros wreck is situated at a maximum depth of 31 meters. This depth typically means the dive will be conducted around the 30-meter mark, making it an excellent site for divers comfortable with deeper explorations.
What marine life and specific wreck features can divers expect to explore on the SS Spyros?
The SS Spyros is an iron steam ship vessel, built in 1880 and measuring 46.7m x 7.3m. Divers can explore its significant features, including the compound expansion engine and single shaft. Although specific marine life is not detailed, wrecks like this often host diverse local species, which you can learn more about in our wildlife database.
What is the difficulty level of the SS Spyros wreck dive, and what kind of diver experience is recommended?
The SS Spyros wreck dive is rated as intermediate difficulty. Furthermore, it is classified as a "Dangerous wreck," indicating that it is best suited for experienced divers who possess advanced training and are comfortable with the unique challenges and potential hazards associated with wreck diving.
When is the best time of year to dive the SS Spyros wreck for optimal conditions and visibility?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year for optimal conditions and visibility at the SS Spyros wreck. For general information on diving seasons and conditions in the United Kingdom, please consult our When to Dive guide.
What diving certifications are necessary or highly recommended to dive the SS Spyros wreck?
To safely dive the SS Spyros wreck, which is at 31 meters and classified as intermediate difficulty and a "Dangerous wreck," an Advanced Open Water certification or equivalent is highly recommended. Additionally, specialized wreck diving training would be very beneficial to navigate the site's unique challenges.
What are the typical current conditions and visibility at the SS Spyros wreck, and when is slack water?
Unfortunately, the provided data does not include details on typical current conditions, visibility, or specific slack water times for the SS Spyros wreck. It is always best to consult with local dive centers or guides in Cornwall & Devon for the most current site conditions before planning your dive.