Wreck of Earl of Abergavenny - Cornwall & Devon

The HMS Havock in Tabarka isn’t just a wreck; it’s a time capsule. We found it a fascinating dive, especially for those who appreciate history intertwined with marine life. This G-class destroyer, sunk during WWII, now rests upright, mostly intact, and makes for some fantastic penetration dives if you’re experienced and properly trained. We’ve nudged through the torpedo tubes and peered into the gun turrets, imagining the chaos of its final moments. Our favourite part has to be the stern, where common octopuses often peek from crevices and huge schools of fusiliers swirl around the propellor. The marbled electric rays are a regular sight here, too, often settled in the sand nearby. We’d suggest heading out in the morning; the light filtering through the superstructure is particularly atmospheric then, illuminating the bushy coral that’s taken root on the decks. It’s a site that rewards careful exploration, a wreck dive that feels genuinely substantial and alive.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.602386, -2.409233
Type
wreck

Marine Protected Area: Chesil Beach and Stennis Ledges

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 Wreck of Earl of Abergavenny

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 Wreck of Earl of Abergavenny

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