VIKHOLMEN - Cornwall & Devon

The *Vikholmen* is one of our favourites for a proper deep wreck dive in the UK, especially if you’re into the feel of history rather than just big metal. She’s a decent size at 46.6m, sitting upright and pretty intact on a silty bottom at 54m. Dropping down, you can make out the bow rising from the gloom first, often with a moody swell of sand eels around it. We’ve found the stern is the most interesting part, with the single boiler still prominent and a triple expansion engine providing some great penetration opportunities for experienced divers. Around the superstructure, you’ll likely spot plenty of crabs tucked into crevices, and we’ve often seen conger eels peering out from the deeper, darker sections. The *Vikholmen* isn't about vibrant coral; it’s about the wreck itself, the way the history settles around you. For tech divers, the depth and the integrity of the wreck offer a compelling exploration. Just remember, this is a serious dive; strong currents can sometimes sweep through, so pick your slack carefully. Best dived on a neap tide for less exertion and more time to really soak in the atmosphere.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.225445, -1.932556
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
54m

Marine Protected Area: West of Wight-Barfleur

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 VIKHOLMEN

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 VIKHOLMEN

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 depths divers can explore at the Vikholmen dive site?
The Vikholmen dive site is a deep wreck dive. Divers can explore this site at a depth of 54 meters. This makes it suitable for experienced divers comfortable with deeper profiles.
What marine life and underwater topography can divers expect to encounter at Vikholmen?
The Vikholmen dive site is a fascinating wreck dive, featuring the remains of a steam ship vessel. Divers can explore the structure of this 46.6m x 7.7m wreck, which includes a boiler and a triple expansion engine. The site primarily offers an exploration of this historical artificial reef; for general information on marine life, visit our wildlife database.
Is Vikholmen considered a difficult dive site, and what are the challenges for divers?
Vikholmen is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive site. While not extremely challenging, its depth of 54 meters requires divers to have appropriate training and experience with deep diving. Divers should be prepared for a deep wreck exploration and ensure they have the right equipment.
What is the best time of year to go diving at Vikholmen for good visibility and conditions?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year for diving at Vikholmen regarding visibility or conditions. For general guidance on optimal diving seasons in the United Kingdom, please consult our When to Dive section.
What level of scuba diving certification is needed to dive at Vikholmen, and are dry suit certifications required?
Given its depth of 54 meters and classification as an intermediate dive, divers will need advanced or technical certifications suitable for deep wreck diving. While not explicitly stated as required, a dry suit certification is highly recommended for diving in the Cornwall & Devon region due to colder water temperatures. Ensure you have the appropriate equipment and training for these conditions.
How strong are the currents and what is the typical underwater visibility at Vikholmen?
The provided data does not include specific information regarding the strength of currents or typical underwater visibility at the Vikholmen dive site. Divers planning to visit this wreck site should consult local dive operators for the most up-to-date conditions.