HMHS REWA - Cornwall & Devon

The HMHS Rewa, sitting at 57 metres, is a serious dive for serious divers, no question. We’re talking full technical setup, but the reward is absolutely worth the effort. Dropping down, you’re greeted by this immense structure, 139 metres of history, appearing out of the green gloom. You can still make out the sheer scale of her, a hospital ship, and it’s a sobering thought, knowing her story. Her six boilers are a real focal point, huge cylinders encrusted with dead man's fingers and anemones, creating these incredible, colourful scenes against the steel. The bridge area is largely collapsed but the bow and stern still hold their shape well, offering plenty to explore if you’re comfortable with penetration. Visibility here can be tricky, typical for the UK, but when it’s good, the light catching the growth on the deck plates is something special. We’ve seen conger eels that look like they could swallow your arm, and lobsters tucked into every conceivable crevice. Our favourite time to dive her is on a slack tide in late summer, when the water has warmed a degree or two, and the light penetrates a little deeper. Just remember, this isn’t a quick dip; it’s a planned expedition.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.913418, -4.963700
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
57m

Marine Protected Area: Bristol Channel Approaches / Dynesfeydd Mor Hafren

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 HMHS REWA

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 HMHS REWA

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

How deep is the HMHS Rewa wreck dive?
The HMHS Rewa wreck dive reaches a maximum depth of 57 meters. This makes it a challenging dive, suitable for experienced divers with appropriate deep diving qualifications.
What can divers expect to see when exploring the HMHS Rewa wreck?
Divers exploring the HMHS Rewa can expect to see the impressive remains of a hospital ship, measuring 139m x 17.1m. Built in 1906 and sunk in 1918, this vessel was employed as Hospital Ship No. 5 and still features its six boilers, offering a fascinating glimpse into maritime history as a non-dangerous wreck.
What is the difficulty level of diving the HMHS Rewa?
Diving the HMHS Rewa is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive. With a depth of 57 meters, it requires divers to have appropriate training and experience for deep wreck diving.
What is the best time of year to dive the HMHS Rewa, considering the conditions in the Bristol Channel?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year to dive the HMHS Rewa or details about conditions in the Bristol Channel. For general guidance on optimal diving seasons and conditions, please consult our When to Dive section.
What scuba diving certifications are needed to dive the HMHS Rewa?
The specific scuba diving certifications needed to dive the HMHS Rewa are not detailed in the provided information. Given its depth of 57 meters and intermediate difficulty, advanced or technical diving certifications, such as a Deep Diver or Wreck Diver specialty, would typically be recommended. Always check with local dive operators for their specific requirements.
What are the typical currents and underwater conditions like at the HMHS Rewa dive site, including visibility?
The provided data does not include information on typical currents, underwater conditions, or visibility at the HMHS Rewa dive site. Divers should always consult local dive centers for up-to-date information on site conditions before planning their dive to this historic wreck.