Wreck of U-40

Best months: Jul–Sep

Protected Area

Sussex

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) - Wreck of U-40 offers some of Cornwall & Devon's richest wreck diving. Water ranges 10-18°C, warmest July, August, September.

Best timeJul–Sep

WetsuitA 5mm wetsuit

Marine lifeBlue Sharks, Dolphins, Dwarf Minke Whales, Humpback Whales and Ocean Sunfish (Mola Mola) · 176+ species recorded

Water10-18°C · warmest July, August, September

CharacterWreck dive

StandoutExceptional marine biodiversity

The U-40 isn't just another lump of metal on the seabed, it's a real piece of history, and we love how intact she is. Lying upside down, she's a dark, imposing shape that emerges from the often murky green, a stark reminder of her abrupt end in 1939. You can trace her length, running your hand along the hull plates that are now encrusted with sponges and dead man's fingers. Visibility can swing from brilliant to a bit challenging here, so we always suggest checking local reports and aiming for slack water. Inside, there are still glimpses of her internal structure, and the torpedo tubes are a particularly evocative sight. Look closely in the gloom; you'll often spot schools of pouting darting in and out, and conger eels are pretty much a given. It's a dive that really suits those with a keen interest in maritime history and divers comfortable in lower visibility. As you explore, the sheer scale of this Type IXA submarine really hits you. We’ve found ourselves lingering over the conning tower, imagining the watch crew just before the mine strike. Around the propeller, you’ll often find large wrasse picking at the growth, and it’s a brilliant spot for macro photography if the conditions play ball. This isn't a dive for chasing colourful corals, it’s about the quiet awe of history and the hardy creatures that have made it their home.