HMS MANOR - Cornwall & Devon

We’ve spent a fair few days bobbing around off the Lizard, and the HMS Manor, a deep trawler wreck, is one of our favourite dives when conditions align. Dropping to 55m, this isn't one for the casual diver. The Manor, originally a 1913 trawler, was converted for anti-submarine duties in both World Wars, finally succumbing to a mine in 1942. You can still see that history etched into her; we've found the bow gun still surprisingly intact on a few visits, though the stern is more broken up. The real draw here, beyond the history, is the way the wreck has become a sanctuary. Ling often cruise the darker sections inside the hull, and conger eels are everywhere, peeking from every hole and crevice. Look out for the nudibranchs too; their colours pop against the rusty steel. We’d suggest hitting this on a slack tide, with minimal swell, to really appreciate the structure and avoid getting tossed around. The sheer depth means careful gas planning is essential, but for experienced technical divers, the HMS Manor is a proper piece of maritime history that delivers a genuinely atmospheric dive.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.323800, -3.027800
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
55m

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 HMS MANOR

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 MANOR

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 Maori dive site and what parts of the wreck are visible at shallower depths?
The maximum depth of the HMS MANOR wreck is 55 meters. While the wreck features a 6PDR gun mounted on the bow, a boiler, triple expansion engine, and a single shaft, the provided data does not specify at what shallower depths these particular parts are visible.
What kind of marine life and historical artifacts can divers expect to see on the HMS Maori wreck?
Divers exploring the HMS MANOR can expect to see significant historical artifacts from this trawler vessel, which was sunk in 1942. Notable features include its single boiler, triple expansion engine, single shaft, and a 6PDR gun mounted on the bow. Information regarding specific marine life at this site is not available in the provided data.
Is the HMS Maori wreck dive suitable for beginner divers, or is it considered challenging?
The HMS MANOR wreck dive is classified as having an intermediate difficulty. Therefore, it is not suitable for beginner divers and requires appropriate experience and training for safe exploration.
What is the best time of year to dive the HMS Maori wreck for optimal conditions and visibility?
Information regarding the best time of year for optimal conditions and visibility at the HMS MANOR wreck is not provided in the available data. For general guidance on diving conditions, you might consult our When to Dive resource.
What diving certifications are required to dive the HMS Maori wreck in Malta?
The HMS MANOR wreck is located in Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, not Malta. Specific diving certifications required for this intermediate-level wreck dive are not detailed in the provided information. Divers should always ensure they have the appropriate training and experience for a 55-meter deep wreck dive.
What are the typical current and visibility conditions like at the HMS Maori dive site?
The provided data does not include specific information about the typical current and visibility conditions at the HMS MANOR dive site. Divers planning to visit this 55-meter deep wreck should consult local dive operators for up-to-date conditions.