Porthkerris Divers, Porthkerris Ltd.

Porthkerris Divers is situated on the Lizard Peninsula in Cornwall, positioned just a few steps from the water's edge. The centre serves as a gateway to some of the most diverse marine environments in the United Kingdom, ranging from sheltered riverbeds to exposed offshore reefs.

The location is particularly noted for its shore diving, with Drawna Reef providing accessible options for those who prefer to launch from the beach. For those looking to head further out, the centre operates two dedicated vessels to reach the deeper wrecks and pinnacles of the Manacles and the Lizard Point area.

The centre is affiliated with several major diving organisations, including PADI, SSI, BSAC, IANTD, and DAN. This allows for a broad spectrum of training, from recreational certifications to technical gas blending and oxygen provider courses.

Safety is a core part of the operation, with qualified first responders always on site and emergency oxygen available. The boat skippers are RYA qualified and are experienced divers themselves, ensuring they understand the local conditions and site requirements.

Training at Porthkerris covers the full recreational spectrum, including PADI Open Water, Advanced Open Water, and Rescue Diver, as well as PADI Divemaster and various PADI specialties. SSI freediving courses are also available.

For technical and specialty training, the centre offers IANTD Nitrox and Advanced Nitrox, along with DAN O2 Provider certification. Divers can also specialise in Drysuit, Deep, and Wreck diving to prepare for the local environment.

The centre operates two vessels for its diving excursions. The Celtic Cat is a 45-foot catamaran capable of carrying 12 divers, providing a stable platform for trips to the offshore reefs and wrecks.

The Celtic Kitten is an 8.5-metre Power Cat used for shorter trips and servicing local sites. Both boats are operated by experienced skippers who are familiar with the local currents and topography.

The shore-based facilities include a retail shop, changing rooms, showers, and dedicated areas for rinsing equipment. For those arriving by car, there is on-site parking available.

Technical divers will find a dedicated Nitrox station on site, utilizing Haskel Trimix pumps to facilitate gas blending. A full range of rental kit is available, including semi-dry suits, drysuits, regulators, BCDs, cylinders, dive computers, and weights.

The local waters are home to a diverse range of larger species. You may encounter southern stingrays, dogfish sharks, and various species of cod, pollock, and sea bass. During the spring, mackerel are common, while blue sharks can be seen between June and September, and basking sharks appear from late April to August.

The reef structures and wrecks are rich with fixed life. You will find a variety of sponges, sea fans, gorgonians, and hard and soft corals. Anemones and various types of sea urchins are also frequently seen across the rocky substrates.

Macro life and smaller inhabitants are abundant in the crevices and sandy patches. Look for hermit crabs, cuttlefish, dragonets, and various species of crabs and lobsters. The seabed also supports populations of scallops, sea squirts, and tube worms.

The area is subject to significant tidal influences, particularly at sites like Penwin, Vase, and the Manacles. Some sites, such as Mohegan and Pancra Head, are best dived in a drift or at a steady trim due to strong currents.

Porthkerris Cove itself is generally sheltered from westerly winds, providing calmer conditions during the summer months. Many of the offshore sites are best explored during neap tides to manage the water movement.