VAV - Cornwall & Devon

The VAV, a steamship sunk by a German submarine in 1917, lies off The Lizard, a solemn reminder of wartime history. At 71.6m long, she’s a substantial wreck, resting at 50m, making her a dive for experienced deep divers. We find her largely intact, her superstructure creating interesting swim-throughs and shelter for conger eels and squat lobsters that pepper the metalwork. The visibility here can be challenging, but on a good day, the VAV offers a genuinely atmospheric wreck dive, with plenty to explore for those who appreciate the quiet dignity of a well-preserved piece of maritime past.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
49.928387, -5.226019
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
50m

Marine Protected Area: Lizard Point

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 VAV

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 VAV

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 are the typical dive depths at Vaavu Atoll?
The provided data context does not contain specific information regarding the typical dive depths at Vaavu Atoll. However, for the VAV wreck in Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, the recorded depth is 50m. Divers interested in the VAV wreck should be prepared for this depth.
What kind of marine life can divers expect to see when diving in Vaavu Atoll?
Information about the marine life expected when diving in Vaavu Atoll is not available within the provided data context. The data describes the VAV wreck as a steam ship vessel, sunk in 1917, without mentioning any specific marine inhabitants. For general information on marine life, you can explore our wildlife database.
How difficult is diving in Vaavu Atoll, and is it suitable for beginners?
The provided data does not specify the difficulty level for diving in Vaavu Atoll. However, for the VAV wreck in Cornwall & Devon, the diving difficulty is classified as intermediate. This suggests it may not be suitable for absolute beginners without appropriate training and experience.
What is the best time of year to dive in Vaavu Atoll for good visibility and marine life encounters?
The provided data context does not offer information on the best time of year to dive in Vaavu Atoll for optimal visibility or marine life encounters. The details provided are specific to the VAV wreck, a historical steamship, and do not include seasonal diving conditions. For general guidance on seasonal diving, you might consult our when to dive section.
What dive certifications are required or recommended for diving in Vaavu Atoll?
The provided data does not specify any required or recommended dive certifications for Vaavu Atoll. Similarly, no certification requirements are listed for the VAV wreck in Cornwall & Devon. Divers should always ensure they have appropriate certification for the depth and type of dive planned.
What are the typical current conditions like when diving in Vaavu Atoll?
Information regarding the typical current conditions when diving in Vaavu Atoll is not available in the provided data context. The data focuses on the historical details and physical characteristics of the VAV wreck, a steamship sunk off The Lizard. Divers should always inquire about local conditions before diving.