54m
    Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom
    West of Wight-Barfleur

    VIKHOLMEN

    Best months: Jul–Sep

    Protected Area

    West of Wight-Barfleur

    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) - VIKHOLMEN offers some of Cornwall & Devon's richest wreck diving. Water ranges 10-18°C, warmest July, August, September.

    Best timeJul–Sep
    WetsuitA 5mm wetsuit
    Marine lifeBlue Sharks, Dolphins, Dwarf Minke Whales, Humpback Whales and Ocean Sunfish (Mola Mola) · 176+ species recorded
    Water10-18°C · warmest July, August, September
    CharacterWreck dive · max 54m
    StandoutExceptional marine biodiversity

    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.

    Typical VIKHOLMEN Dive Profile

    15m30m45m60mSafety Stop0m54m max~15 min estimated bottom time

    Illustrative profile based on site depth and type. Actual dive profiles vary - always follow your dive computer and training.

    Safety Notes

    Maximum depth 54m exceeds recreational limits (40m). Technical diving certification and equipment required.

    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.

    Today06:2417:2711h 3m daylightGolden hour 16:43

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    Conditions

    Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for VIKHOLMEN

    VIKHOLMEN Ocean Conditions

    Monthly averages for VIKHOLMEN, sourced from Open-Meteo marine data - nearest station: Open-Meteo marine grid (50.44, -2.73) (3km away)

    ExcellentGreatGoodFairPoor★Best monthsThis month

    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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