BAMSE
Protected Area
East of Start Point
Why dive here
With 176+ marine species recorded in the area - including blue sharks, dolphins, dwarf minke whales, humpback whales and ocean sunfish (mola mola) - BAMSE offers some of Cornwall & Devon's richest wreck diving. Water ranges 10-18°C, warmest July, August, September.
Dropping onto the Bamse, you’re met with a proper slice of maritime history lying at 37 metres. This old steamship, sunk back in 1918, rests largely intact on the seabed, offering plenty to explore for those comfortable with deeper wreck diving. We love navigating around her two large boilers, still prominent amidst the collapsed decking, often finding conger eels peering out from hidden nooks. Visibility here can be a bit variable, but on a good day, the silhouette of her 68-metre length is really impressive, with schools of pouting circling the structure and the occasional curious seal zipping past. It’s a dive that rewards careful exploration, a quiet contemplation of a vessel long lost to the waves.
Typical BAMSE Dive Profile
Illustrative profile based on site depth and type. Actual dive profiles vary - always follow your dive computer and training.
Safety Notes
Deep dive (37m) - monitor air consumption closely. Advanced certification recommended.
Wreck site - avoid penetration without wreck diving certification. Watch for sharp metal and entanglement hazards.
Always perform a 3-minute safety stop at 5m before surfacing.
Nearest Dive Centres to BAMSE
Dive shops near BAMSE
Edge Watersports
Dive Beyond Limited
Old Harbour Dive Centre
Teign Diving Centre
Reviews for BAMSE
Conditions
Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for BAMSE
BAMSE Ocean Conditions
Monthly averages for BAMSE, sourced from Open-Meteo marine data - nearest station: Open-Meteo marine grid (50.44, -2.73) (3km away)
October Averages
Sea Temperature
17°C
62°F · Range: 15.1–17.5°C
Air Temperature
13°C
56°F
Wind Speed
8.14 m/s
15.8 knots
Atmospheric Pressure
1011 hPa
Based on 4 years of monitoring data · Data sources: Open-Meteo marine data
Plan & book
Ways to dive Cornwall & Devon, from day trips to liveaboards.
Day trips & courses
via GetYourGuideGuided dives, courses and snorkel trips with instant booking.
Find dive trips in Cornwall & DevonPlaces to stay
via Booking.comHotels and dive resorts near Cornwall & Devon.
Search stays in Cornwall & DevonDive insurance
Most travel insurance excludes or limits scuba. Check what you need before you go.
Dive insurance explainedPartner links: we may earn a commission if you book, at no extra cost to you. How we make money
Where to Stay near BAMSE
Prices from Booking.com. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.