STUDLAND BAY WRECK - Cornwall & Devon

Diving the Studland Bay Wreck is a real step back in time. You’re looking at the remains of a 16th-century Spanish merchant vessel, sitting in just 10 metres of water. We’ve found distinct areas of wreckage, with some of the timbers and framing still visible and the keel mostly intact. It’s a site that really makes you slow down, imagining the ship’s journey as you poke around the wooden fragments and scattered pottery. Because it’s relatively shallow, it’s a good spot for divers who want to take their time and examine the history rather than rush a deep dive. Expect to see plenty of crabs and small fish making homes in the crevices, too.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.661404, -1.914532
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
10m

Marine Protected Area: Studland 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 STUDLAND BAY WRECK

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 STUDLAND BAY WRECK

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 depth of the Studland Bay Wreck dive site?
The Studland Bay Wreck dive site has a maximum depth of 10 meters. This relatively shallow depth makes it accessible for many divers.
What kind of marine life and wreck features can divers expect to see at the Studland Bay Wreck?
Divers exploring the Studland Bay Wreck can expect to see distinct areas of wreckage from a 16th-century Spanish merchant vessel. Features include most of the framing and timbers from the starboard area, the intact keel and lower hull, and numerous wooden items. You may also discover a cannon, cannon balls, and large amounts of early 16th-century pottery.
How difficult is diving the Studland Bay Wreck and is it suitable for beginner divers?
Diving the Studland Bay Wreck is rated as intermediate difficulty. While its shallow depth of 10 meters is appealing, the intermediate rating suggests it may not be ideal for absolute beginner divers without some prior experience or supervision.
What is the best time of year or tidal conditions to dive the Studland Bay Wreck?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year or tidal conditions for diving the Studland Bay Wreck. For optimal diving experiences, it's always recommended to consult local dive centers or resources like DivePlnr's When to Dive section for up-to-date information on conditions.
What diving certifications are required to dive the Studland Bay Wreck?
While specific certification requirements are not detailed in the provided data, the Studland Bay Wreck is classified as an intermediate dive. This typically suggests that divers should hold at least an Advanced Open Water certification or equivalent, or be diving under the direct supervision of an instructor. Always check with local dive operators for their specific requirements.
What are the typical currents, visibility, and water conditions at the Studland Bay Wreck?
The provided information does not include details on typical currents, visibility, or water conditions at the Studland Bay Wreck. Divers should always check current conditions with local dive operators before planning their dive to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.