TORMES (POSSIBLY) - Cornwall & Devon

The Tormes, or what we strongly suspect is the Tormes, offers some fantastic wreck diving off the coast of Cornwall. Dropping onto her at 24 metres, you’ll immediately feel that sense of history. This old steamship, sunk way back in 1894, is thoroughly broken up now, but that just adds to her appeal. We love weaving through the scattered plates and twisted metal, imagining the life she had before coming to rest here. Our favourite parts are the two huge boilers, still standing proud and absolutely covered in plumose anemones, their frilly white tentacles waving in the mild current. You’ll find plenty of inquisitive ballan wrasse darting around, and if you look closely into the nooks and crannies, spider crabs often scuttle out of sight. It’s a proper rummage, a fascinating dive for anyone who enjoys exploring a bit of maritime history rather than just swimming over a pristine structure. Do check the tides though; even mild current here can make for a less comfortable dive.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
51.593933, -5.053067
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
24m

Marine Protected Area: Castlemartin Coast

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 TORMES (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 TORMES (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 for diving at Tormentos Reef?
The dive site, known as TORMES (POSSIBLY), has a typical depth of 24 meters. This makes it suitable for divers comfortable with moderate depths and offers a single-depth exploration experience.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at Tormentos Reef?
Divers exploring the TORMES (POSSIBLY) will encounter a fascinating steam ship wreck, measuring 79.6m x 10.4m. This vessel, originally built in 1877, sank on October 30, 1894, and features two boilers and a compound expansion engine. While specific marine life is not detailed, wrecks typically attract a variety of local fish and invertebrates, making it an interesting habitat to explore.
How difficult is diving at Tormentos Reef, and what skill level is recommended?
Diving at the TORMES (POSSIBLY) wreck is classified as intermediate difficulty. Divers should possess the necessary skills and experience for this level to safely explore the site. This classification indicates that some challenges, such as depth or potential currents, may be present.
When is the best time of year to dive Tormentos Reef for optimal conditions?
The provided data for the TORMES (POSSIBLY) wreck does not specify the best time of year for optimal diving conditions. For general guidance on planning your dive trips to the United Kingdom, you may want to consult our When to Dive section.
What scuba diving certifications are required to dive at Tormentos Reef?
While specific certification requirements are not detailed, given the TORMES (POSSIBLY) wreck's intermediate difficulty and 24-meter depth, divers should hold at least an Advanced Open Water certification or equivalent. This ensures you have the training and experience for deeper wreck dives and potential challenges.
What are the typical current and visibility conditions like at Tormentos Reef?
The available data for the TORMES (POSSIBLY) wreck does not include details on typical current or visibility conditions. It is always recommended to check local dive reports and conditions immediately prior to your dive to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.