BOMA - Cornwall & Devon

The Boma wreck, resting at 28 meters, is a proper dive for those who appreciate a bit of history beneath the waves. This steamship, sunk in 1918, lies broken but still recognisable, with those impressive boilers a key focal point. We’ve found plenty of pollack hanging around the metalwork, and the usual crab and lobster tucked into the nooks and crannies. It’s a good choice for divers comfortable with depth and who enjoy poking around a substantial piece of maritime heritage off the Cornish coast. Current can be a factor, so picking your slack water window is always sensible here.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.536050, -3.238833
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
28m

Marine Protected Area: Lyme Bay and Torbay

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 BOMA

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 BOMA

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 typical depth range for diving at the Bama Wall dive site?
The BOMA wreck, located off Cornwall & Devon, offers diving at a depth of 28 meters. As a fascinating steamship wreck, the dive profile typically involves exploring around this consistent depth. This vessel, built in 1889, provides an intriguing historical dive experience.
What kind of marine life and coral can divers expect to see at Bama Wall?
While specific marine life and coral are not detailed in the provided information for the BOMA wreck, divers in United Kingdom waters often encounter various temperate species. Wrecks like the BOMA typically become artificial reefs, attracting local fish, crabs, and anemones. For more general information on marine life in the region, visit our wildlife database.
How challenging is diving at Bama Wall, especially regarding currents?
Diving at the BOMA wreck is classified as intermediate difficulty. While specific current conditions are not detailed, divers should always be prepared for varying conditions when exploring wrecks, especially those classified as "Dangerous wreck." It's advisable to consult with local dive operators for the most up-to-date information on currents.
What is the best time of day or year to dive Bama Wall for optimal conditions?
The provided data does not specify the best time of day or year for optimal diving conditions at the BOMA wreck. Generally, conditions in United Kingdom waters can vary significantly with seasons and local weather. For detailed guidance on planning your dive to this Cornwall & Devon site, you might find our When to Dive section helpful.
What scuba diving certifications are recommended or required to dive at Bama Wall?
Given that the BOMA wreck is at a depth of 28 meters and classified as intermediate difficulty, an Advanced Open Water Diver certification or equivalent is generally recommended. For exploring the wreck itself, which is a steamship sunk in 1918, a Wreck Diver specialty certification would be highly beneficial. Always ensure you are adequately trained and experienced for the conditions.
What are the usual current conditions and visibility like at the Bama Wall dive site?
The provided information does not detail the usual current conditions or visibility at the BOMA wreck. As with many dive sites in United Kingdom waters, visibility and currents can be variable. It's always best to check with local dive centers for current reports before planning your dive to this Cornwall & Devon site, especially given its "Dangerous wreck" classification.