Unknown Wreck off Thorness Bay - Cornwall & Devon

Dropping onto the Unknown Wreck off Thorness Bay, you’re greeted by the skeletal remains of a wooden sailing vessel, lying in about 15 metres of water. It’s not a towering steel hulk, but a more subtle, historical dive. We found sections of the hull still intact, framing and planking visible, offering a glimpse into mid-to-late 19th-century ship construction. Small fish dart through the timbers, and you’ll spot crabs tucked into crevices. It’s a quiet, reflective dive, perfect for those who appreciate maritime history and the slower pace of exploring a site where nature is gradually reclaiming human endeavour.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.748188, -1.356190
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
15m

Marine Protected Area: Thorness Bay

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 Unknown Wreck off Thorness Bay

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 Unknown Wreck off Thorness Bay

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 'Unknown Wreck off Thorness Bay' dive site?
The maximum depth of the Unknown Wreck off Thorness Bay dive site is 15 meters. This makes it a suitable depth for a range of certified divers.
What kind of wreck features and marine life can divers expect to see at the 'Unknown Wreck off Thorness Bay'?
Divers exploring the Unknown Wreck off Thorness Bay can expect to encounter the remains of a mid- to late-C19 century wooden merchant sailing vessel. The site features coherent ship structure, including framing, inner and outer planking, and numerous fixtures and fittings. While specific marine life is not detailed in our current data, wrecks often become vibrant artificial reefs.
How challenging is diving the 'Unknown Wreck off Thorness Bay', and is it suitable for less experienced divers?
Diving the Unknown Wreck off Thorness Bay is rated as intermediate difficulty. While not recommended for absolute beginners, it can be suitable for less experienced divers who have completed their advanced open water certification or have some experience with similar conditions.
When is the best time of year or tidal condition to dive the 'Unknown Wreck off Thorness Bay' for optimal visibility?
Our current data for the Unknown Wreck off Thorness Bay does not specify the best time of year or tidal conditions for optimal visibility. We recommend consulting local dive operators in Cornwall & Devon for up-to-date information on local conditions and planning your dive accordingly. You can also explore general tips on when to dive for more guidance.
What specific certifications or licenses are required to dive the 'Unknown Wreck off Thorness Bay'?
While specific certifications are not explicitly listed for the Unknown Wreck off Thorness Bay, its intermediate difficulty rating suggests that an Advanced Open Water certification or equivalent experience is advisable. Always ensure you are certified for the depth and conditions you plan to encounter.
What are the typical underwater conditions, such as currents and visibility, at the 'Unknown Wreck off Thorness Bay'?
Our available data for the Unknown Wreck off Thorness Bay does not detail typical underwater conditions such as currents or visibility. For the most current and accurate information on these conditions, it is best to consult local dive centers or guides in the Cornwall & Devon area before planning your dive.