The
North Coast of Cornwall is exposed to such strong currents
that good dive planning is essential, as most sites can only
be dived at slack water. On 4th August 2007, two
divers from a visiting club were lost for several hours
after diving the well known St Chamond (“Train Wreck”) near
St Ives, having apparently mis-timed slack water.
Thankfully, after a search involving two lifeboats, an
inshore lifeboat, a helicopter and several other vessels in
the area, the divers were safely recovered by a passing
fishing boat several miles from their point of entry.
To
attempt to help dive planning we have tabulated our
observations regarding slack water at stated dive sites on
dates we have dived there. Although many sites have very
limited information at present, we hope to record and add
more information in future seasons. Although we hope that
this data will prove useful in conjunction with thorough
dive planning, there is no substitute for proper assessment
of conditions on the day.
Dave
Jenkins
Chairman, Penzance Diving Club
