ST KATHARINE (PROBABLY) - Cornwall & Devon

The ST KATHARINE, or what we strongly suspect is her, offers a deep dive for those comfortable with technical depths off the Cornwall coast. Down at 57 metres, the wreck of this steamship, sunk back in 1917, is largely intact. You'll find her machinery aft, with a single boiler and compound expansion engine making for interesting points of exploration. Despite the depth and low light, she’s become a haven for crabs and various fish species, often darting in and out of the hull structure. We'd suggest this site for experienced wreck divers looking for a challenging dive with a real sense of history.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.149715, -3.998750
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
57m

Marine Protected Area: Start Point to Plymouth Sound and Eddystone

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 ST KATHARINE (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 ST KATHARINE (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 St Katharine (probably)?
The ST KATHARINE (PROBABLY) wreck is located at a significant depth of 57 meters. This makes it a deep dive, primarily suitable for experienced divers. Exploring this historic steam ship vessel offers a unique opportunity for those comfortable with advanced depth profiles.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at St Katharine (probably)?
Divers exploring the ST KATHARINE (PROBABLY) will primarily encounter the impressive remains of a steam ship vessel, sunk in 1917. This 48.5m x 7.6m wreck serves as the main underwater feature, offering a glimpse into maritime history. While specific marine life details are not provided, wrecks commonly become artificial reefs, attracting various species over time.
How challenging is diving at St Katharine (probably) for different experience levels?
Diving at the ST KATHARINE (PROBABLY) wreck is classified as intermediate difficulty, primarily due to its depth of 57 meters. This dive is best suited for divers with prior experience in deeper water and wreck diving. It presents a rewarding challenge for those looking to explore a significant historical site.
What is the best time of year or conditions to dive at St Katharine (probably) for optimal visibility and experience?
Specific information regarding the best time of year or optimal conditions for diving at ST KATHARINE (PROBABLY) to achieve peak visibility and experience is not available in our current data. For the most accurate and up-to-date conditions, we recommend checking local dive reports or contacting a local dive center in Cornwall & Devon. You can also explore general guidance on when to dive for the region.
What scuba diving certifications are required or recommended to dive at St Katharine (probably)?
Given that the ST KATHARINE (PROBABLY) is an intermediate difficulty wreck dive at 57 meters, advanced certifications are highly recommended. Divers should ideally hold Deep Diver and Wreck Diver specialties to safely and competently explore this site. These certifications ensure you possess the necessary skills for such challenging environments.
What are the typical current conditions and visibility like at St Katharine (probably)?
Our current data does not provide specific details on the typical current conditions or visibility at the ST KATHARINE (PROBABLY) dive site. For the most accurate and up-to-date information on these dynamic factors, it is always best to consult with local dive operators in Cornwall & Devon before planning your dive.