WAR HELMET - Cornwall & Devon

The War Helmet is one of our favourite Cornwall wrecks, a proper deep dive that still offers plenty to see. She went down in 1918, torpedoed by a German U-boat, and now rests upright on the seabed at 27 metres. You descend into a green gloom that clears around 15 metres, revealing her huge silhouette. The sheer scale is what gets you first; this was a big ship, 135 metres long, and you feel that bulk as you fin along her decks. What we love here are the details. Her twin boilers are still prominent, often swarming with pollack, and you can poke around the remains of the triple-expansion engines. Look for conger eels tucked into the darker recesses, their heads peering out, wary but curious. We've seen dogfish nosing around the debris field, too. It’s a proper historical dive, a poignant reminder of WWI, and suits experienced divers comfortable with deeper, darker conditions. Visibility can be patchy, but on a good day, when that green light penetrates, it's really something special. We always suggest diving on a neap tide for the best conditions.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.623350, -0.610050
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
27m

Marine Protected Area: Offshore Overfalls

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 WAR HELMET

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 WAR HELMET

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 is the maximum depth of the War Helmet dive site and what are the depths of its different sections?
The War Helmet dive site has a maximum reported depth of 27m. The provided information does not detail specific depths for different sections of the wreck, but divers can expect the main structure to be found at this depth.
What kind of marine life and historical artifacts can divers expect to see at the War Helmet wreck?
While specific marine life is not detailed in the provided information for the War Helmet, wreck sites often attract a variety of local species; you can learn more about common species in our wildlife database. Divers can expect to explore the remains of a 135.6m x 17.7m steam ship, built in 1917 and sunk in 1918, featuring four boilers and two triple expansion engines.
How difficult is the War Helmet dive site, and is it suitable for intermediate or advanced divers?
The War Helmet dive site is classified as intermediate difficulty. Given its classification as a "Dangerous wreck," it is best suited for intermediate divers with appropriate experience and training, or advanced divers.
What is the best time of year or tidal condition to dive the War Helmet wreck for optimal visibility and conditions?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year or optimal tidal conditions for diving the War Helmet wreck. For general guidance on seasonal diving and conditions in the region, please consult our When to Dive resources.
What diving certifications are recommended or required to dive the War Helmet wreck, especially for wreck penetration?
While specific certification requirements are not detailed for the War Helmet, its intermediate difficulty and classification as a "Dangerous wreck" suggest that divers should hold at least an Advanced Open Water certification or equivalent. For any wreck penetration, specialized training in wreck diving and appropriate equipment are essential.
What are the typical current conditions and visibility like at the War Helmet dive site, and what should divers be aware of?
The provided data does not include details on typical current conditions or visibility at the War Helmet dive site. Divers should always consult local dive operators or resources for up-to-date information on currents and visibility before planning their dive.