The largest of all the Bristol Channel Islands, Lundy Island has a land mass of just 4.45 square kilometers. Designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest as well as England’s first Marine Nature Reserve, it is also a Marine Conservation Zone that is well-known for its unusual flora and fauna. This amazing island is just as beautiful below the surface as it is above, and it boasts more than 40 dive sites. Here, we’ll take a look at just a few favorites.
Seal’s Rock
A beautiful site located along the southeast side of Lundy Island, Seal’s Rock features a steep drop off that leads to the wreck of an unknown vessel which some believe to be the Heroine. The area offers an abundance of ross coral and jewel anemones, and is teeming with lobsters, starfish, and sea urchins, as well as numerous bandfish and others. Watch for basking sharks during the summer months, and expect to encounter friendly seals on most dives. Maximum depth is about 30 meters, depending on tide.
Gannet’s Rock
Gannet’s Rock rises above the water’s surface and continues below to a depth of about 15 meters. If you like, you can also explore the area between Seal’s Rock and Gannet Rock, which features a channel approximately 35 meters deep, and off to the other side, you’ll find a field of boulders strewn along the muddy bottom at a depth of about 14 meters. Studded with corals and anemones, and teeming with wrasse and other creatures, this area is perfect for all divers and is a favorite with underwater photographers.
Robert and Iona Wrecks
A pair of wrecks that lie about 50 meters from one another, the Robert and Iona are located at a depth of about 21 meters. Both of these wrecks are covered in ross coral, anemones, and sponge, and are home to a spectacular array of marine life including curious congers that peer out from their hiding places among the wreckage.
Surf Point Gullies
Fascinating for their geologic features as well as for their marine life, the Surf Point Gullies site features a labyrinth of shallow gullies that are quite narrow at the top, but that open out just below sea level. Almost like diving in caves or canyons, these rocky gullies are swarming with fish and are a favorite playground for fearless seals that often take a nibble at divers’ fins. Maximum depth is about 20 meters, but there’s plenty to see in much shallower water.
There are numerous dive shops which offer trips to Lundy Island from England’s mainland. The boat trip takes approximately an hour each direction, and along the way, you’re very likely to see porpoises, dolphins, and even more of the seals the region is so famous for. Night dives are available at several shallow sites, and between dives, there’s walking, birdwatching, snorkeling, and just relaxing to be enjoyed. Non-diving friends can accompany you to Lundy Island; the spectacular landscape is one anyone is certain to appreciate. Should you decide to stay on the island, a limited amount of lodging is available. This area is in high demand and though it is far from the beaten path, it is popular. Be sure to book well in advance to ensure you are able to enjoy the dive sites that appeal to you most!