VERNICK
Protected Area
Brighton to Newhaven Cliffs
Why dive here
With 176+ marine species recorded in the area - including blue sharks, dolphins, dwarf minke whales, humpback whales and ocean sunfish (mola mola) - VERNICK offers some of Cornwall & Devon's richest wreck diving. Water ranges 10-18°C, warmest July, August, September.
The Vernick is a proper little dive, sitting upright and mostly intact at 16m, just off the coast. We love a wreck that still looks like a ship, even a small one, and this 11.9m fishing vessel from 1978 delivers. You’ll fin down to find her deck, complete with a winch and the remains of her mast, covered in dead man’s fingers and bright anemones. It’s a tight wreck, perfect for a slow circuit, peering into what’s left of the wheelhouse where you might spot a conger eel or a couple of lobsters tucked deep inside. Visibility can be a bit variable, but on a good day, when the sun filters through the green water, the Vernick feels wonderfully atmospheric. Our pick is always to hit it on a slack tide, otherwise, you'll be working pretty hard against the current. It’s a solid dive for anyone comfortable in temperate waters, offering a genuine piece of history within easy reach.
Typical VERNICK Dive Profile
Illustrative profile based on site depth and type. Actual dive profiles vary - always follow your dive computer and training.
Safety Notes
Wreck site - avoid penetration without wreck diving certification. Watch for sharp metal and entanglement hazards.
Always perform a 3-minute safety stop at 5m before surfacing.
Nearest Dive Centres to VERNICK
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Conditions
Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for VERNICK
VERNICK Ocean Conditions
Monthly averages for VERNICK, sourced from Open-Meteo marine data - nearest station: Open-Meteo marine grid (50.44, -2.73) (3km away)
October Averages
Sea Temperature
17°C
62°F · Range: 15.1–17.5°C
Air Temperature
13°C
56°F
Wind Speed
8.14 m/s
15.8 knots
Atmospheric Pressure
1011 hPa
Based on 4 years of monitoring data · Data sources: Open-Meteo marine data
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