In another entry from SCUBA magazine's 2025 writing competition, A Dive to Remember, Katie Reeve describes the healing power of her happy place – Porthkerris Cove in Cornwall.
Briefing:
Ever since I was a little girl, I’ve been captivated by the ocean. I took my first steps in Spain, mesmerised by the waves. One of my earliest memories was seeing a turtle in Portugal at the age of four, sparking a lifelong love for marine life. Growing up in Cornwall, with the sea always in sight, deepened that passion.
The dive:
After 15 years raising three children in the city, I returned home, drawn back to the coast like a needle to true north. Life has dealt me hard blows: losing my dad, two brothers, and facing a breakdown that nearly crushed me. But through it all, my partner Sean has supported me with love and encouragement.
In September 2022 I finally achieved my dream of learning to dive. Sean sourced and bought all the kit I needed, making it possible to pursue my passion safely. Since then, we’ve shared unforgettable dives, from Malta to the Red Sea. But my heart truly belongs to Cornwall, and to Porthkerris.
An aerial view of Porthkerris Cove and Drawna Rocks
Porthkerris Divers is a hidden gem on the Lizard Peninsula, a relaxed, friendly dive centre with sheltered shore diving, fantastic boat trips and excellent facilities for all levels of divers. It offers on-site air fills, equipment hire and a cosy local café open during the season. Visitors can stay for a weekend or a full week, with options to camp or park right on the site— all run by the most welcoming staff.
Two friends, Neil and Lucy, both ex-instructors, encouraged us to visit Porthkerris. Thanks to them, we experienced our unforgettable first night dive, where bioluminescence lit up like blue fireflies on the ocean floor. The most amazing experience.
Jewel anemones on Ragland Reef
Debrief:
Porthkerris isn’t just a dive site; it’s a sanctuary, a place full of connection and underwater magic.
Share your scuba (or snorkel) story!
We want to hear from YOU. Tell us your scuba (or snorkel) story - how you got into the sport and what brought you to BSAC. Whether you were already trained with another agency, started as a young snorkel diver or found us later in life. Email your story to marketing@bsac.com with the subject 'My scuba/snorkel story' and some pictures and yours might be the next story we share!
This article was originally published in SCUBA magazine, Issue 157, July/August 2025. For more membership benefits, visit bsac.com/benefits.
Images in this online version may have been substituted from the original images in SCUBA magazine due to usage rights.
