WEST BAY - Cornwall & Devon

West Bay is one of those sites that just feels like history beneath the waves. You're not looking at a shiny, intact vessel here, but rather a low mound of iron, spread across the seabed at a comfortable 12 metres. We love it because it’s a proper archaeological dive; a protected wreck where the heavily concreted iron bars hint at a cargo lost to a storm, and you can pick out the shape of an old muzzle-loading bronze gun if you know where to look. It’s not about penetration or grand structures, it’s about discovery, about peering into the past. The real beauty here is how the sea has reclaimed it. Every iron bar is a miniature habitat, thick with dead man's fingers and anemones, providing shelter for crabs and blennies. Visibility in Lyme Bay can be variable, but on a good day, with a gentle swell, the ambient light filters down, creating a genuinely atmospheric dive. We'd suggest going on a slack tide to really take your time exploring the details. It's a dive that suits those who appreciate historical context and the quiet observation of marine life making a home on something forgotten.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.704056, -2.778469
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
12m

Marine Protected Area: West Dorset Coast

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 WEST BAY

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 WEST BAY

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 and maximum depths at West Bay dive sites?
The typical diving depth at the West Bay dive site is 12 meters. This makes it an accessible wreck dive for many certified divers.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see when diving in West Bay?
Divers exploring West Bay can expect to encounter the fascinating remains of a cargo vessel. The site features a low mound of heavily concreted iron bars, including a heavily concreted iron gun and a muzzle-loading bronze gun of European or Eastern origin. This protected wreck offers a unique historical underwater experience. While specific marine life isn't detailed, wrecks often attract various species; you can learn more about common species in the region via our wildlife database.
How challenging is the diving in West Bay, and is it suitable for beginner divers?
Diving at West Bay is rated as intermediate difficulty. Therefore, it is generally not recommended for absolute beginner divers. Divers should possess appropriate experience and certifications for intermediate-level wreck diving.
What is the best time of year to go diving in West Bay for optimal conditions and visibility?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year for optimal diving conditions or visibility at West Bay. However, the wreck was lost due to adverse weather, suggesting conditions can vary. For general guidance on seasonal diving in the region, please consult our when to dive section.
What scuba diving certifications are required or recommended for diving in West Bay, especially for deeper or more advanced sites?
Given the intermediate difficulty rating and a depth of 12 meters, divers should hold at least an Open Water Diver certification, with advanced training or experience in wreck diving highly recommended for West Bay. While not a deep dive, the wreck environment requires specific skills.
What are the typical water conditions, including currents and visibility, like at West Bay dive sites?
The provided data does not detail specific water conditions, currents, or typical visibility at West Bay. However, the wreck was lost due to adverse weather, indicating that conditions can be challenging. Always check local dive reports and conditions before planning your dive.