TREVEAL - Cornwall & Devon

Treveal is one of our favourite Cornwall wrecks, and one you shouldn't miss if you're in the area. Sunk in 1920, this 122-metre steamship lies in quite a sheltered spot, making it accessible on days when other deeper sites are blown out. We love how much of the original structure is still identifiable – you can trace the huge boilers, the triple-expansion engine, and even some of the deck plating. The ambient light at just 4 metres depth means you often don't need a torch, though one can help bring out the colours of the jewel anemones that coat the metalwork. Shoals of pollock swirl around the bow, and we’ve often found dogfish tucked into crevices. It’s a gentle dive, perfect for extended bottom times and for those who enjoy really picking apart a wreck's history. Just remember, it’s a popular spot, so aim for an early morning dive if you want the place to yourself.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.586716, -2.083047
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
4m

Marine Protected Area: Purbeck 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 TREVEAL

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 TREVEAL

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 Treveal shipwreck and surrounding reefs?
The SS Treveal shipwreck is found at a shallow depth of 4 meters, making it quite accessible for divers. This depth is specific to the wreck itself, located in the waters off Cornwall & Devon. Divers can expect a relatively short bottom time due to the minimal depth.
What kind of marine life and wreck features can divers expect to encounter at the Treveal dive site?
Divers exploring the Treveal dive site can expect to encounter the impressive features of a large steam ship vessel, which was sunk on January 10, 1920. The wreck measures 122.1m x 15.9m and still features three boilers and a triple expansion engine of 517 NHP, offering fascinating historical elements to explore. While specific marine life is not detailed in the provided data, wrecks typically attract various local species over time.
How challenging is the diving at Treveal, particularly regarding currents and overall difficulty?
Diving at Treveal is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive. It is important to note that the wreck itself is classified as a "Dangerous wreck," which implies certain hazards that intermediate divers should be prepared for. While specific current information is not provided, divers should always be mindful of local conditions when planning a dive on a wreck of this classification.
What are the best times of year or specific tidal conditions recommended for diving at Treveal?
The provided data does not specify the best times of year or specific tidal conditions recommended for diving at Treveal. For optimal planning, we recommend consulting local dive operators or checking our When to Dive section for general guidance on diving in the United Kingdom. Local expertise will provide the most current and accurate information regarding conditions.
Are there any specific scuba diving certifications required or highly recommended for diving Treveal?
While specific certifications are not explicitly stated, given the intermediate difficulty of the Treveal wreck dive, divers should possess at least an Advanced Open Water certification or equivalent experience. This will ensure you are adequately prepared for potential challenges associated with a "Dangerous wreck" classification. Familiarity with wreck diving techniques is also highly recommended for safety and enjoyment.
What are the usual current and sea conditions at Treveal, and how do they impact a dive?
The provided data does not detail the usual current and sea conditions at Treveal, nor how they specifically impact a dive. Divers planning to visit this site in Cornwall & Devon should consult local dive centers for up-to-date information on conditions before planning their dive. Understanding local currents and visibility is crucial for a safe and enjoyable experience, especially on a classified "Dangerous wreck."