HMS DRAKE - Newfoundland

The HMS Drake isn't your typical deep wreck, and that's precisely why we love it. Sunk in 1822 off Eastern Head, this sloop lies essentially at surface level, making it a fantastic experience for snorkelers, freedivers, and even just a low-tide shore walk. We’ve spent hours tracing the timbers, which are surprisingly intact considering the centuries of North Atlantic abuse. You’ll see the wooden skeleton of the ship, its ribs exposed to the elements, now completely encrusted with mussels and anemones. It feels like stepping into a maritime museum, only the artifacts are still in situ, swaying gently with the tide. Look closely in the crevices; we often spot sculpins tucked amongst the wood, and sometimes a curious crab scuttles out from beneath a beam. It’s a raw, historical dive, a genuine piece of history you can touch and explore without needing a tank. It’s particularly good for those new to wreck exploration, offering a safe, shallow introduction to maritime heritage. We’d suggest going at slack tide for the clearest views, though the surge can add a dramatic element if you're feeling adventurous.

Location
Newfoundland, Canada, North America
Coordinates
46.621666, -53.600000
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
0m

Marine Protected Area: Mistaken Point

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 DRAKE

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 DRAKE

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