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HMS Northcoates

Welcome to one of the most renowned dive sites in the UK, the incredible "Armed Trawler" known as HMS Northcoates. Located approximately 9 miles from Selsey, this captivating wreck rests at a depth of 27m beneath the crystal-clear waters. As you explore this popular dive spot, you'll have the opportunity to witness the remnants of the degaussing equipment, a testament to its former role as a minesweeper. One of the most striking features is the well-preserved forecastle gun, an imposing sight that adds to the allure of this underwater wonder.

Diving enthusiasts flock to HMS Northcoates not only for its historical significance but also for the diverse marine life it attracts. The wreck serves as a haven for various species, including crabs and lobsters, which can be found weaving in and around its structure. As you venture deeper, you'll encounter magnificent shoals of Bib, Poor Cod, bass, and Pollock, creating a vibrant and mesmerizing underwater spectacle.

With a maximum depth of 29m and a visibility of approximately 5m, this dive site is best suited for advanced and expert divers seeking an exhilarating underwater experience. Situated in the captivating waters off the coast of England, United Kingdom, HMS Northcoates offers a truly unforgettable diving adventure for enthusiasts looking to explore the rich maritime history and vibrant marine ecosystem of this region.

Diving Conditions Score for HMS Northcoates

5.4
Average

Average conditions, be alert.
The score is based on a calculation of the current weather and sea conditions.

Dive Site Overview for HMS Northcoates

Depth

29m

Visibility

5m

Experience Level

advanced
expert

Weather Conditions for HMS Northcoates

Wave Height

0.38m

Wind Speed

15.8 m/s

Water Temp

18°C

Visibility

26.18km

Cloud Cover

2%

Wave Period

4.25s

Air Temperature

16.2°C

Precipitation

0 mm

Detailed 7-Day Diving Forecast for HMS Northcoates
Alpha

Dive Score Chart for HMS Northcoates

Best time to dive: 8:00 with score 7.245665217391305/10. Water conditions: Waves 0.4m, Wind 20.5 m/s.Best night dive time: 2:00 with score 6.6899999999999995/10.

Chart showing hourly dive conditions including wave height, wind speed, water temperature, and visibility throughout the day.

Sunrise at HMS Northcoates: 06:00
Sunset at HMS Northcoates: 18:00

Optimal diving conditions at HMS Northcoates are affected by daylight hours. Sunrise occurs at 06:00 and sunset at 18:00, which impacts visibility and water temperature for scuba diving and snorkeling.

🌞
Best Overall
8:00

Score: 7.2/10
Waves: 0.4m (5.75s), Wind: 20.5 m/s

🌙
Best Night
2:00

Score: 6.7/10
Waves: 0.36m, Wind: 15.1 m/s

Seasonal Analysis for HMS Northcoates
Alpha

Historical patterns and best seasons for diving at HMS Northcoates

The dive score combines all factors to rate overall diving conditions throughout the year. Higher scores indicate better diving conditions.

Monthly Dive Score Analysis - Seasonal Diving Conditions

Higher values indicate better diving conditions

Seasonal DiveScore Chart

This chart displays monthly diveScore data throughout the year, showing seasonal patterns. The data is presented as a bar chart with an overlaid line graph.Dive scores range from 1 to 10, with 10 being optimal conditions.

Higher values indicate better diving conditions

Best Season for HMS Northcoates

Winter

Avg. Score: 7.9/10

Winter offers the best overall diving conditions with calmer seas and better visibility, despite cooler temperatures.

Best Months for HMS Northcoates

January
Score: 8.0
February
Score: 7.8
December
Score: 7.8

Ideal Conditions for HMS Northcoates

Water Temp

Thermometer Emoji

18.0°C / 64.4°F

August

Visibility

Telescope Emoji

12.0m / 39.4ft

July

Wave Height

Wave Emoji

2.1m / 6.9ft

January

Wave Period

Wave Emoji

8.0s

January

Seasonal Insights for HMS Northcoates

HMS Northcoates shows typical northern hemisphere patterns with August being the warmest month (18.0°C) and December the coldest (3.9°C). The calmest conditions typically occur in January with average wave heights of 2.1m and wave periods of 8.0s. The most comfortable wave conditions are in January with a low wave steepness ratio, creating gentler swells. January offers the longest wave periods (8.0s), creating more comfortable and predictable conditions for boat entries and exits. Ocean currents are slowest in January (0.5m/s) and strongest in January (0.5m/s). January is usually the driest month with 0.0mm of precipitation. For beginners, the best time to visit would be during January to March, when ocean conditions are calmer with long-period waves and currents are typically weaker. Experienced divers might enjoy the challenges and potentially better visibility during the shoulder seasons, with moderate currents that can improve marine life encounters.

Scoring Legend:
9-10 (Excellent)
7-8 (Good)
5-6 (Average)
3-4 (Poor)
1-2 (Dangerous)

Last updated: 1 min. ago - Jun 20, 2026

Note: This dive site is not a verified dive site. Please dive with caution. This dive site might have incorrect information by the community.

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