UB 32 - Cornwall & Devon

The UB 32, a German WWI submarine, rests upright in the English Channel at 55 meters. She’s a dark, brooding shape on the seabed, her conning tower still distinct. The wreck herself is fairly intact given her age, and you can make out the torpedo tubes and pressure hull. Visibility down here can be a lottery, but on a good day, the low light picks out the jewel anemones and dead man’s fingers that have claimed her hull. This is a technical dive, no doubt, but for experienced wreck enthusiasts, it’s a tangible piece of history, often home to conger eels lurking in her deeper sections.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.134000, -1.218167
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
55m

Marine Protected Area: Wight-Barfleur Reef

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 UB 32

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 UB 32

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 maximum depth of the UB 32 wreck for divers?
The UB 32 wreck is located at a maximum depth of 55 meters. This makes it a challenging dive suitable for experienced divers with appropriate deep diving qualifications.
What marine life and specific wreck features can divers expect to see on the UB 32?
The UB 32 is a submarine vessel, measuring 36.9m x 4.3m, offering a fascinating wreck dive experience. While specific marine life isn't detailed in the provided data, divers can typically expect to find various local species inhabiting the structure of this non-dangerous wreck in the English Channel. The wreck itself provides an intriguing structure to explore.
How difficult is the UB 32 dive site, and is it suitable for divers without extensive wreck diving experience?
The UB 32 dive site is classified as intermediate difficulty. While it is a non-dangerous wreck, its depth of 55 meters suggests it is not ideal for divers without extensive wreck diving experience or appropriate deep diving certifications. Divers should possess the necessary skills and training for challenging wreck environments.
What is the best time of year or specific tidal conditions to dive the UB 32 for optimal visibility and calmer waters?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year or particular tidal conditions for optimal visibility and calmer waters when diving the UB 32. For general guidance on planning your dives, you might consult our When to Dive section for broader regional information.
What scuba diving certifications are required or highly recommended to safely dive the UB 32 wreck?
Given the UB 32 wreck's depth of 55 meters and intermediate difficulty, advanced certifications such as PADI Deep Diver or equivalent technical diving certifications are highly recommended. These certifications ensure divers have the necessary training and experience to safely manage the challenges of deep wreck diving. Always ensure your equipment is suitable for such depths.
What are the typical current and visibility conditions encountered when diving the UB 32?
The provided data does not include specific information regarding the typical current and visibility conditions encountered when diving the UB 32. Divers planning to visit this site in Cornwall & Devon should consult local dive operators for the most up-to-date conditions.