WAITARA - Cornwall & Devon

The Waitara sits deep, a proper expedition dive at 53 metres, off the coast of Cornwall. This isn't one for a quick splash, but it’s a brilliant dive for those with the training and experience to appreciate a deep, intact sailing ship. She went down after a collision in 1883, carrying passengers and crew from Gravesend to Wellington, and the story of her loss really adds to the atmosphere down there. We love the scale of the Waitara. At nearly 60 metres long, you get a real sense of a grand vessel. The bow section is particularly impressive, rising from the seabed, often shrouded in schooling bib. Exploring the holds, we've come across some surprisingly large conger eels, tucked into the gloom, and the occasional anglerfish lying perfectly camouflaged on the deck. Visibility can be a challenge here, often around 5-10 metres, so good buoyancy and torch work are essential. Our pick for timing is often early morning on a slack tide, before the boat traffic stirs things up too much. It's a sombre, beautiful dive, a real piece of maritime history under the waves.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.242443, -1.906806
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
53m

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 WAITARA

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 WAITARA

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 diving depths encountered at the Waitara dive sites, especially around the Waitotara and Patea Reefs?
At the Waitara dive site, divers can expect to encounter a depth of 53 meters. Information regarding typical diving depths specifically around the Waitotara and Patea Reefs is not available in our current data for this location.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see when diving near Waitara, particularly at the Waitotara and Patea Reefs?
When diving near Waitara, divers will primarily explore the fascinating wreck of a sailing vessel, sunk on July 22, 1883. This substantial wreck measures 58.3m x 9.6m and is classified as a non-dangerous wreck. Our current data does not specify particular marine life or additional underwater features beyond the wreck itself, nor does it detail features of Waitotara and Patea Reefs.
How challenging are the dive conditions at Waitara, specifically regarding currents and overall difficulty for divers?
The dive conditions at the Waitara site are classified as intermediate difficulty. This suggests a moderate level of challenge, suitable for divers with appropriate experience. Specific details regarding current strengths are not provided in our available data for this location.
What is the best time of year to go diving at Waitara for optimal conditions and marine encounters?
Our current data for the Waitara dive site does not specify the best time of year for optimal conditions or marine encounters. For general guidance on seasonal diving, you might consult our When to Dive resource.
What scuba diving certifications are typically required or recommended for diving at the Waitara dive sites?
The Waitara dive site is classified with an intermediate difficulty and reaches a depth of 53 meters. Our current data does not explicitly state the specific scuba diving certifications required or recommended for this site, but divers should ensure they are adequately trained and experienced for these conditions.
What are the typical current strengths and general water conditions divers can expect when exploring dive sites around Waitara?
Our available data for the Waitara dive site does not specify typical current strengths or general water conditions such as visibility or temperature. Divers should consult local dive operators for the most up-to-date information on conditions before planning their dive.