WIGHT ROSE - Cornwall & Devon

The Wight Rose is more than just a wreck; it’s a compact, exciting dive, especially if you catch it on a good day. At only 15 metres long, this old ferry sits upright and largely intact at 24 metres, offering some fantastic penetration opportunities if you’re properly trained and equipped. We love seeing the four one-ton barrels of freshwater that originally caused her demise still resting in the hold. They are a stark reminder of the rough seas that claimed her back in ‘97. Down here, the wreck hums with life. Conger eels peer out from dark crevices, their size always a surprise. You’ll spot lobsters everywhere, scuttling amongst the metalwork, and dead man’s fingers coral has really started to coat the entire structure, adding vibrant splashes of orange and white. For us, the wheelhouse is a highlight; it’s still very much there, inviting a peek inside to imagine the chaos of her final moments. This is a site that suits experienced divers looking for a bit of a challenge and a genuinely atmospheric wreck dive. Just be sure to check the local conditions; strong currents can make this a tricky one.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.712240, -1.529745
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
24m

Marine Protected Area: Colwell Bay

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 WIGHT ROSE

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 WIGHT ROSE

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