

Best for beginner divers, 14-18m, boat entry, mild current.
The James Fennel Wreck is a boat-accessible dive site located 1000 metres off the coast of Swanage and Poole. This wreck and reef site sits at an average depth of 15 metres, with a total depth range between 14 and 18 metres. Divers can expect mild currents and visibility ranging from 5 to 30 metres. The site is suitable for beginners and typically offers a 45-minute dive duration. Facilities available in the area include parking, toilets, showers, changing rooms, air fills, dive shops, boat charters, and guided tours. Water temperatures fluctuate seasonally between 9C and 18C.
50.54583, -2.45500
Plan dive timing around slack tide periods as currents can build quickly and make navigation and ascents demanding.
Most divers treat it as a slack-water boat dive, with a shotline onto the main debris field.
Recorded at this site
Depth
14-18m
Visibility
5-30m
Skill Level
Beginner
Entry
Boat
Boat required
Water Temp
9-18°C
Current
Mild
Typical Dive
45 min
Best Time
May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Yes, the site is rated as suitable for beginner divers.
The site has an average depth of 15 metres, with a total depth range of 14 to 18 metres.
This is a boat dive located 1000 metres from the shore, and a boat is required to access the site.
Water temperatures range from 9C in February and March to 18C in September.
Diving at James Fennel Wreck in Portland requires the following certifications: Open Water. Always dive within your training limits.
A drysuit recommended is recommended for diving at James Fennel Wreck in Portland. Water temperatures range from 9°C to 18°C.
The best months to visit James Fennel Wreck in Portland are May, June, July, August, and September. Conditions outside these months can still be good but are less predictable.