U 322 (POSSIBLY) - Cornwall & Devon

The U-322, potentially, is a profound dive. Sitting at 50 metres, this isn't one for the casual diver. We're talking proper technical territory, and you’ll want your trimix cylinders and a plan. Dropping down, the visibility in this part of the Channel can be hit-or-miss, but when it's good, the sheer scale of this Type VIIC U-boat starts to emerge from the gloom. You’re looking at a wreck that stretches over 67 metres. It’s largely intact, though clearly war-torn. We love the way the conning tower stands proud, usually swathed in shoals of pouting and jewel anemones. Take your time to explore the deck, imagining the cramped conditions onboard. Keep an eye out for conger eels lurking in the torpedo tubes, and the occasional lobster tucked into any crevice. It’s a somber experience, remembering the 48 lives lost here, but also a privilege to witness such a significant piece of history. Dive this on a neap tide for the best chance of settled conditions.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.414600, -2.436817
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
50m

Marine Protected Area: South of Portland

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 U 322 (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 U 322 (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