HMS JOHN MITCHELL - Cornwall & Devon

The HMS John Mitchell, a wooden steam drifter sunk by a German U-boat in 1917, is a dive for those who appreciate history and the slow reclamation of the ocean. At 40 meters, this site is strictly for experienced divers. We love the way the wooden hull has collapsed over time, creating a jumble of timbers that now house conger eels and squat lobsters. Our favourite part is exploring the triple-expansion engine, surprisingly intact, with its brass fittings still visible if you’ve got a good torch and a keen eye. Visibility here can be a bit hit or miss, so we’d suggest aiming for slack water on a neap tide for the best chance of a clear view. When it’s good, the natural light filtering through the kelp, with shoals of bib darting around the wreck, is quite atmospheric. Look closely for nudibranchs on the upright sections of the hull. This isn't a wreck for penetration, but rather a chance to observe how a working vessel has become an artificial reef, providing shelter for all sorts of Cornish critters.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.499893, -1.765878
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
40m

Marine Protected Area: Albert Field

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 HMS JOHN MITCHELL

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 HMS JOHN MITCHELL

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 of the HMS John Mitchell dive site?
The maximum depth of the HMS John Mitchell dive site is 40 meters. This makes it a deeper wreck dive, suitable for divers with appropriate training and experience.
What kind of wreck features and marine life can divers expect to see on the HMS John Mitchell?
The HMS John Mitchell is a 26m x 6.1m wooden drifter vessel, built in 1913 and sunk in 1917. Divers can explore the remains of this non-dangerous wreck, which includes its boiler and triple expansion engine. Specific details about marine life are not provided in the current data, but wrecks typically attract diverse aquatic species.
How challenging is diving the HMS John Mitchell wreck, and what skill level is recommended?
Diving the HMS John Mitchell is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive. With a maximum depth of 40 meters, it is recommended for divers who have advanced training and experience in deeper wreck diving. Divers should possess the necessary skills and certifications for such challenging conditions.
What is the best time of year to dive the HMS John Mitchell for optimal conditions?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year to dive the HMS John Mitchell for optimal conditions. For general guidance on seasonal diving in the United Kingdom, please refer to our When to Dive section.
What diving certifications are required to dive the HMS John Mitchell?
While specific certifications are not explicitly listed, the HMS John Mitchell is an intermediate difficulty wreck dive to 40 meters. Therefore, divers should hold certifications such as Advanced Open Water Diver and potentially a Deep Diver specialty, along with relevant wreck diving training. Always consult with a local dive operator for precise requirements.
What are the typical underwater currents and visibility conditions at the HMS John Mitchell dive site?
The provided data does not include specific information regarding typical underwater currents or visibility conditions at the HMS John Mitchell dive site. Divers planning to visit this 40-meter deep wreck should consult local dive centers for up-to-date conditions and forecasts.