TOWNELEY - Cornwall & Devon

The SS Towneley, down at 47 metres, is a serious dive for those who appreciate a big, intact wreck. She’s a beast of a steamship, 93 metres long, lying mostly upright. You can spend an entire dive exploring her structure, from the massive triple-expansion engines, which are still impressive, to the cavernous holds. We love the feeling of swimming along her decks, imagining her final moments after that torpedo hit in 1918. This isn't a dive for the faint-hearted or inexperienced, but for advanced divers, it’s incredibly rewarding. Visibility can be hit or miss, typical for the English Channel, but when it's good, you’ll see conger eels peering from every nook and cranny, massive pollack patrolling overhead, and often a few curious seals making a fly-by. Our favourite part is navigating the stern, where the prop shaft is still visible, encrusted with dead man's fingers and anemones. It’s a proper expedition, and you’ll surface feeling like you’ve truly explored a piece of history. Just be sure to pick a calm day; the run out can be lumpy.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.863250, -4.823650
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
47m

Marine Protected Area: Bristol Channel Approaches / Dynesfeydd Môr Hafren

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 TOWNELEY

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 TOWNELEY

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 maximum depth for diving at TOWNELEY?
The typical maximum depth for diving at the TOWNELEY dive site is 47 meters. This depth makes it an exciting dive for those comfortable with deeper explorations and advanced training.
What kind of marine life or underwater features can divers expect to see at TOWNELEY?
Divers at TOWNELEY can expect to explore a fascinating underwater feature - a steam ship vessel. This impressive wreck, measuring 93.3m x 12.8m, was sunk in 1918 and offers a unique historical diving experience. While specific marine life isn't detailed, wrecks often become artificial reefs, attracting various species over time.
How difficult is diving at TOWNELEY, and is it suitable for beginners?
Diving at TOWNELEY is classified as intermediate difficulty. Due to its depth and the nature of wreck diving, it is generally not suitable for beginners. Divers should possess appropriate experience and certifications for intermediate-level dives.
What is the best time of year to dive at TOWNELEY for optimal conditions?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year to dive at TOWNELEY for optimal conditions. For general guidance on seasonal diving in the Cornwall & Devon region, please consult our When to Dive section.
What scuba diving certifications are required to dive at TOWNELEY?
While specific certification requirements are not explicitly listed, given the intermediate difficulty and maximum depth of 47 meters at TOWNELEY, divers would typically need advanced or deep diver certifications. It is always recommended to check with local dive operators for precise prerequisites.
What are the typical currents and water conditions like at the TOWNELEY dive site?
The provided data does not include specific information on typical currents or water conditions at the TOWNELEY dive site. Divers planning a trip should consult local dive centers for the most up-to-date information on conditions in Cornwall & Devon.