James Egan Layne

The James Eagan Layne is a remarkable wreck located near the Eddystone reef, off the coast of the United Kingdom. After being hit, the ship was towed by Admiralty tugs towards Plymouth in an attempt to salvage its cargo. Unfortunately, during the journey back, the stern collapsed, causing the ship to sink in Whitsand Bay. Today, the wreck rests in an upright position on a sandy seabed, pointing north towards the shore.

Divers exploring the James Eagan Layne will be treated to an incredible underwater experience. With a visibility of approximately 7 meters, the wreck reveals itself in all its glory at a maximum depth of 20 meters. This dive site is recommended for advanced divers due to its depth and challenging conditions.

As you descend, you'll encounter a wide variety of marine life that has made the wreck its home. Along the port side, you'll find vast sheets of white anemones and dead man's fingers, adding vibrant colors to the underwater landscape. The removal of the ship's masts and funnel means that they can now be explored on the seabed, located on the port side as well.

Although much of the cargo was salvaged before the James Eagan Layne sank, remnants can still be seen in parts of the five holds. Divers will have easy access to holds number 1 and 2, where many railway rolling stock wheels are stored. Additionally, fallen decking now covers the main engine, adding an extra layer of intrigue to the dive.

Explorers should also take note of the broken stern, which lies southwest of the main wreck near hold number 5. Despite its separation, the stern section is linked to the rest of the wreck by a rope, allowing divers to easily navigate between the two.

For those looking to visit this captivating dive site, the James Eagan Layne is conveniently located near Freathy, St. John, Cornwall, in the beautiful region of South West England. With its rich history, diverse marine life, and the opportunity to witness a fascinating shipwreck in an upright position, this dive site is sure to leave a lasting impression.