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

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical depth range for diving the HMS Calypso wreck?
The HMS Calypso wreck is uniquely located at a depth of 0m, making it an incredibly accessible dive. This means the wreck is essentially at surface level, allowing divers to explore this historic site without significant depth considerations.
What kind of marine life and historical artifacts can divers expect to see on the HMS Calypso?
The HMS Calypso is a fascinating historical wreck, originally a corvette vessel built in 1883. Divers can expect to encounter significant historical artifacts related to its past, such as its original 4 x 6 inch and 12 x 5 inch guns. While the provided data does not specify particular marine life, the wreck itself offers a captivating glimpse into naval history.
How difficult is the HMS Calypso dive site, and is it suitable for all experience levels?
The HMS Calypso dive site is classified as having an intermediate difficulty. This indicates it is best suited for divers with some prior experience and comfort in wreck diving. While not recommended for absolute beginners, it offers a rewarding experience for those with appropriate training and skill.
What is the best time of year to dive the HMS Calypso for optimal visibility and conditions?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year for optimal visibility and conditions at the HMS Calypso dive site. For general guidance on seasonal diving, you might consult our When to Dive section. We always recommend checking local dive operator reports for current conditions before planning your trip.
Are there any specific diving certifications required to explore the HMS Calypso wreck?
While the data does not explicitly list specific certifications for the HMS Calypso, its intermediate difficulty classification suggests that divers should possess at least an Advanced Open Water certification or equivalent. For wreck diving, specialized training is often beneficial for a safer and more enjoyable experience.
What are the usual currents and underwater conditions like at the HMS Calypso dive site?
The provided data for the HMS Calypso dive site does not include specific details about usual currents or underwater conditions. As conditions can vary significantly, it is always advisable to consult local dive operators or guides for the most current information before your dive.