SS HORNET - Cornwall & Devon

The SS Hornet lies at 42 metres, a substantial steamship that went down in 1912. For divers, it's a solid technical dive, often with strong currents that mean you’re really working for your time on the wreck. We find the twin boilers are usually the most intact section, standing proud and providing a great backdrop for photos. Look out for conger eels tucked into the deeper recesses and plenty of wrasse darting around the superstructure. It's a dive for those comfortable with deeper wrecks and the typical UK visibility.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
51.209520, -4.376383
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
42m

Marine Protected Area: Morte Platform

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 SS HORNET

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 SS HORNET

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 SS Hornet wreck in New Jersey?
The SS Hornet wreck, located off Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, has a typical depth of 42 meters. It is important to note that the wreck is not located in New Jersey as the question suggests. This depth classifies it as an intermediate dive, suitable for experienced divers.
What kind of marine life and historical artifacts can divers expect to see at the SS Hornet dive site?
Divers exploring the SS Hornet can expect to encounter the remains of a historic steam ship vessel, built in 1892 by J Preistman of Sunderland and sunk on May 25, 1912. The wreck, formerly known as EX-SIR RICHARD GRENVILLE, features two boilers and a triple expansion engine of 253 HP. While the provided context does not specify particular marine life, the structure of this non-dangerous wreck itself provides a fascinating historical experience.
How challenging is the SS Hornet as a dive site, and is it suitable for beginner wreck divers?
The SS Hornet is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive site. With a depth of 42 meters, it is not typically suitable for beginner wreck divers. Divers should possess appropriate experience and training for deep wreck diving conditions.
What is the best time of year to dive the SS Hornet for optimal conditions and visibility?
Information regarding the best time of year for optimal conditions and visibility at the SS Hornet dive site is not available in the provided data. For general guidance on dive planning, you might consult our When to Dive resource.
What scuba diving certifications are required or recommended to dive the SS Hornet wreck?
While specific certification requirements are not detailed in the provided data for the SS Hornet, its classification as an intermediate dive with a depth of 42 meters suggests that advanced open water certification and potentially a deep diver specialty would be highly recommended. Divers should ensure they are adequately trained and experienced for such conditions.
What are the usual current and visibility conditions experienced when diving the SS Hornet?
Details regarding the usual current and visibility conditions experienced when diving the SS Hornet are not specified in the available data. Divers planning to visit this Cornwall & Devon wreck should consult local dive operators for up-to-date conditions.