UNDERLEY - Cornwall & Devon

We love the Underley for a proper wreck dive, even if it’s a shallow one. This iron sailing vessel, sunk way back in 1871, lies broken but still recognisable, with parts of her hull and ribs creating a fantastic structure to explore. It’s not about finding intact cabins; it’s about the sheer scale and the way the sea has reclaimed her. We always find the bow section particularly compelling, jutting up from the seabed. Vis here can be classic UK style, a bit green with a good bit of particulate, but on a calm day, when the sun pierces through, the light plays beautifully across the ironwork. Expect to find plenty of crabs tucked into crevices, some surprisingly large lobsters peering out, and an abundance of wrasse darting through the skeletal remains. It’s a site that feels genuinely historical, a tangible link to Cornwall’s maritime past. Our favourite approach is to take our time, tracing the length of the wreck, imagining the cargo of cotton and gunpowder she carried. This is a dive for those who appreciate the ghost of a ship and the life it now supports, rather than a pristine reef.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.603367, -1.177832
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
1m

Marine Protected Area: Bonchurch Landslips

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 UNDERLEY

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 UNDERLEY

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 the Underley dive site?
The Underley dive site is remarkably shallow, with a typical depth of just 1 meter. This makes it an accessible wreck dive in Cornwall & Devon, though its "Dangerous wreck" classification suggests other factors to consider. This shallow depth is consistent across the site.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at Underley?
Divers at Underley can expect to explore the impressive remains of an iron sailing vessel, measuring 68.6m x 11.3m, which sank in 1871. This significant wreck, built in 1866, is the primary underwater feature. While specific marine life isn't detailed in our records, wrecks like the Underley often become artificial reefs, attracting various local species over time.
How challenging is the Underley dive site, and is it suitable for beginner divers?
The Underley dive site is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive. Despite its shallow depth of 1 meter, its designation as a "Dangerous wreck" means it is not suitable for beginner divers. Divers should possess appropriate experience and training for wreck diving to safely explore this site in the United Kingdom.
What is the best time of year or season to dive at Underley for optimal conditions and visibility?
Specific data regarding the best time of year or season for optimal conditions and visibility at the Underley dive site is not provided in our current records. We always recommend checking local weather and sea conditions with dive operators in Cornwall & Devon before planning your dive to ensure the best experience.
What scuba diving certifications are required or recommended to dive at Underley?
Given the intermediate difficulty and its classification as a "Dangerous wreck," divers should ideally hold an Advanced Open Water certification or a specialty wreck diving certification. This ensures you have the necessary skills and experience to safely navigate and explore the remains of this 1871 iron sailing vessel at a depth of 1 meter.
What are the typical currents and water conditions like at the Underley dive site?
Our current data does not specify the typical currents or water conditions for the Underley dive site. As with any dive, it's crucial to consult with local dive centers or guides in the United Kingdom for up-to-date information on conditions before planning your dive. This will help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience at this shallow wreck site.