Rising sheer from the seabed 12 miles south of Plymouth Sound, the Eddystone Rocks and their iconic red-and-white lighthouse represent the pinnacle of offshore Southwest UK reef diving.
Why Dive Eddystone Reef?
Because of its distance from shore and exposure to Atlantic currents, Eddystone consistently boasts some of the clearest water visibility in England—often exceeding 20 metres.
Key Highlights
- Jewel Anemone Walls: Granite drop-offs plunge from 10m down to 45m, plastered in solid carpets of pink, purple, and gold jewel anemones.
- Historic Lighthouse Foundations: Divers can inspect the submerged Victorian stone foundations of Smeaton’s Tower and earlier light structures dating back to 1698.
- Pelagic Life: Schools of bass, pollack, and occasionally summer blue sharks or basking sharks cruise the offshore pinnacles.
Dive Plan & Conditions
- Weather Dependent: Requires flat sea conditions and experienced charter boat operators out of Plymouth.
Marine Life to Spot at Eddystone Lighthouse Reef & Pinnacles
- Blue Sharks
- Jewel Anemones
- Basking Sharks