BAMSE - Cornwall & Devon

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.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.534740, -2.943764
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
37m

Marine Protected Area: East of Start Point

Best Time to Dive in Cornwall & Devon

The warmest water temperatures in Cornwall & Devon occur in January, averaging 9.6°C. The coolest conditions are in December at 9.6°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 9.6°C (air: 7.3°C)
  • February: 9.6°C (air: 8.4°C)
  • March: 9.6°C (air: 8.6°C)
  • April: 9.6°C (air: 10.1°C)
  • May: 9.6°C (air: 12.6°C)
  • June: 9.6°C (air: 15.2°C)
  • July: 9.6°C (air: 16.6°C)
  • August: 9.6°C (air: 17.1°C)
  • September: 9.6°C (air: 15.9°C)
  • October: 9.6°C (air: 13.5°C)
  • November: 9.6°C (air: 10.7°C)
  • December: 9.6°C (air: 8.7°C)

Nearby Dive Sites in Cornwall & Devon

Nearest Dive Centres to BAMSE

Marine Life in Cornwall & Devon

Home to 192 recorded species including 93 reef fish, 18 sharks & rays, 13 whales & dolphins, 11 crabs & lobsters, 11 other, 10 seagrass & algae.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for BAMSE

Based on average water temperature of 9.6°C.

  • Drysuit - water at 10°C demands a drysuit with thermal undergarments
  • Hood & Gloves (7mm+) - critical to prevent heat loss
  • Mask - essential for every dive
  • Fins
  • BCD - buoyancy compensator
  • Regulator - your most safety-critical piece of gear
  • Dive Computer - tracks depth, time, and NDL
  • Surface Marker Buoy (SMB) - essential for boat pickups
  • Dive Torch - useful for crevices and colour at depth
  • Underwater Camera - capture your diving memories

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the maximum depth and average depth for diving at the BAMSE dive site?
The maximum depth for diving at the BAMSE dive site is 37 meters. The provided data does not specify an average depth, but divers should be prepared for depths up to 37m when exploring this fascinating wreck.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at BAMSE?
The BAMSE is a steam ship vessel, sunk in 1918, offering divers a substantial wreck to explore with dimensions of 68.3m x 9.1m. While specific marine life is not detailed, wrecks typically attract a variety of local species, making it a potential habitat for diverse underwater creatures. Divers can expect to explore the structural remains of this historic vessel.
How difficult is the BAMSE dive site, and is it suitable for beginner or advanced divers?
The BAMSE dive site is classified as intermediate difficulty. This means it is generally suitable for divers with some experience beyond basic Open Water certification, but it may not be ideal for absolute beginners. Advanced divers will also find plenty to explore on this historic wreck.
What are the best times of year or specific conditions to dive at BAMSE for optimal visibility and experience?
The provided data does not specify the best times of year or specific conditions for optimal visibility and experience at the BAMSE dive site. For general guidance on planning your dives, you might consult our When to Dive section for tips on seasonal conditions in the United Kingdom.
Are there any specific certifications required to dive at the BAMSE site, beyond standard Open Water?
Given the BAMSE dive site's maximum depth of 37 meters and intermediate difficulty, divers should ideally possess certifications beyond standard Open Water, such as Advanced Open Water or Deep Diver specialties. These certifications ensure you have the necessary training and experience for deeper wreck diving.
What are the typical current conditions and visibility like at the BAMSE dive site?
The provided data does not include specific information on the typical current conditions or visibility at the BAMSE dive site. Divers planning a trip to Cornwall & Devon should consult local dive operators for up-to-date conditions before diving.