HMS CALYPSO - Newfoundland

The HMS Calypso, or what’s left of her, offers a fascinating glimpse into naval history right here in Newfoundland. We love this site not for its depth-because there isn’t any-but for the sheer scale and character of the remains. Built in 1883, she was a true behemoth in her day, a corvette with impressive firepower, eventually serving as a training ship and then a store hulk. Today, she’s a sprawling wreck, partially salvaged, but still significant. What you’ll explore are the broken timbers and ironwork that tell a story of a ship slowly reclaimed by the sea. It’s a shallow dive, more of a snorkel or wade in places, but don’t let that fool you into thinking it’s not interesting. We'd suggest going at high tide for the best visibility; the water can be a bit silty otherwise. Look closely among the wreckage and you'll find sculpins hunkering down, their camouflage almost perfect against the dark wood, and occasionally some smaller rock crabs scuttling between the gaps. It’s less about vibrant corals and more about the stark beauty of decay and history merging with the subtle marine life of a northern sea. Ideal for history buffs and those who appreciate the quiet dignity of a forgotten vessel.

Location
Newfoundland, Canada, North America
Coordinates
49.300000, -55.016666
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
0m

Marine Protected Area: Lobster Area Closure (Glovers Harbour)

Best Time to Dive in Newfoundland

The warmest water temperatures in Newfoundland occur in August, averaging 15.9°C. The coolest conditions are in March at 0.3°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 2.3°C
  • February: 1.1°C
  • March: 0.3°C
  • April: 1.3°C
  • May: 3.9°C
  • June: 7.3°C
  • July: 12.4°C
  • August: 15.9°C
  • September: 14.6°C
  • October: 11.9°C
  • November: 8.0°C
  • December: 4.6°C

Nearby Dive Sites in Newfoundland

Nearest Dive Centres to HMS CALYPSO

Marine Life in Newfoundland

Home to 72 recorded species including 35 reef fish, 13 whales & dolphins, 7 sharks & rays, 5 seagrass & algae, 3 sea snails & nudibranchs, 2 soft corals.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for HMS CALYPSO

Based on average water temperature of 7.0°C, currents 2 cm/s.

  • Drysuit - water at 7°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