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