WHALE UNIT (578Y)
Protected Area
Dolphin Head Highly Protected Marine Area
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) - WHALE UNIT (578Y) offers some of Cornwall & Devon's richest wreck diving. Water ranges 10-18°C, warmest July, August, September.
The Whale Unit, a 61-metre factory ship, sits upright at 50 metres, and it’s a truly humbling dive. We love the historical context here; it’s widely believed she was destined for the Mulberry Harbours off Normandy, scuttled during the D-Day invasion. Dropping down, the sheer size of her emerges from the gloom, often with visibility around 10-15 metres on a good day. The open sections of the wreck are fascinating, giving a real sense of her purpose. We often find conger eels peering from every dark recess, and the structure is now completely encrusted with plumose anemones, their white tentacles swaying gently in the subtle current. Our favourite part is exploring the deeper cargo holds, though you need to be mindful of your depth and gas. This isn't a dive for the inexperienced; strong currents can sweep through, and the depth demands careful planning. We’d suggest a trimix course if you really want to spend time appreciating her.
Typical WHALE UNIT (578Y) Dive Profile
Illustrative profile based on site depth and type. Actual dive profiles vary - always follow your dive computer and training.
Safety Notes
Maximum depth 50m 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.
Nearest Dive Centres to WHALE UNIT (578Y)
Dive shops near WHALE UNIT (578Y)
Sussex Diving & Leisure
Mulberry Marine Experiences CIC
Reviews for WHALE UNIT (578Y)
Conditions
Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for WHALE UNIT (578Y)
WHALE UNIT (578Y) Ocean Conditions
Monthly averages for WHALE UNIT (578Y), sourced from Open-Meteo marine data - nearest station: Open-Meteo marine grid (50.44, -2.73) (3km away)
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
Plan & book
Ways to dive Cornwall & Devon, from day trips to liveaboards.
Day trips & courses
via GetYourGuideGuided dives, courses and snorkel trips with instant booking.
Find dive trips in Cornwall & DevonPlaces to stay
via Booking.comHotels and dive resorts near Cornwall & Devon.
Search stays in Cornwall & DevonDive insurance
Most travel insurance excludes or limits scuba. Check what you need before you go.
Dive insurance explainedPartner links: we may earn a commission if you book, at no extra cost to you. How we make money
Where to Stay near WHALE UNIT (578Y)
Prices from Booking.com. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.