USS GLENNON - Cornwall & Devon

The USS Glennon, an American destroyer, found its final resting place off the Normandy coast during the D-Day landings in 1944. She’s shallow, sitting at a maximum depth of just 5 metres, making her a perfect choice for extended bottom times and even snorkelers if the conditions are right. We love the Glennon for its accessibility, but don't mistake shallow for uninteresting. Her remains are scattered, showing the violence of her sinking, with plates peeled back like tin cans. You'll find sections of her hull and machinery spread across the seabed, now home to a surprising amount of life. Look for crabs scuttling amongst the twisted metal and various schooling fish flitting through the skeletal remains. Visibility can vary, as with most UK coastal sites, but on a good day, the light plays beautifully through the water, illuminating the wreck’s stark features. We’d suggest timing your dive with a slack tide for the easiest exploration. She's a poignant reminder of history, right beneath the surface.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
49.528168, -1.202722
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
5m

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 USS GLENNON

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 USS GLENNON

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 USS Glennon wreck?
The USS Glennon wreck is found at a shallow depth of 5 meters. This makes it accessible for many divers, offering a unique opportunity to explore a historical site in Cornwall & Devon.
What kind of marine life and historical artifacts can divers expect to see on the USS Glennon?
The USS Glennon is a US Navy destroyer, built in 1942 and sunk on June 6, 1944. Divers can explore the impressive structure of this 106.1m x 11m vessel, which was mined and sunk during WWII operations. While specific marine life is not detailed in the provided data, the wreck itself is a significant historical artifact.
How challenging is diving the USS Glennon, and what skill level is recommended?
Diving the USS Glennon is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive. This dangerous wreck requires divers to have a good level of experience and comfort in wreck diving environments. Due to its classification, proper training and caution are essential for a safe exploration.
What is the best time of year to dive the USS Glennon for optimal conditions?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year for optimal diving conditions at the USS Glennon. For current conditions and seasonal recommendations, it's always best to consult local dive operators or check our general When to Dive guide.
Are there any specific diving certifications required to explore the USS Glennon?
While the USS Glennon is classified as an intermediate difficulty and a dangerous wreck, the provided data does not list specific certification requirements. It is highly recommended that divers possess advanced certifications, such as a wreck diver specialty, and consult with local dive centers in Cornwall & Devon for their specific requirements.
What are the usual currents and visibility conditions like at the USS Glennon dive site?
The provided data for the USS Glennon dive site does not include details on usual currents or visibility conditions. Divers planning to explore this historical wreck should consult local dive operators in Cornwall & Devon for up-to-date information on site conditions.