HMS MAROJAM - Cornwall & Devon

The HMS Marojam, or what’s left of her anyway, is a great dive for when the weather turns a bit frisky in Bigbury Bay. She was an Anchusa-class sloop, meant to be renamed the President and become a drill ship, but fate had other plans back in 1921. Now, she’s well broken up, scattered across the seabed at around 12 meters, but that’s precisely her charm. We love how accessible she is, even when there's a bit of swell. You’re not getting a grand, intact wreck, but you are getting a proper archaeological dive, exploring her ribs and plating that are now home to a surprising amount of life. Look closely among the twisted metal for the vibrant jewel anemones, they’re everywhere, adding splashes of orange and pink to the otherwise muted tones. You’ll often find dogfish tucked into the sand nearby, and sometimes a curious grey seal might even come to investigate. It’s a shallower dive, making for longer bottom times, and it’s a brilliant spot for honing wreck penetration skills on the smaller, more open sections without feeling too committing. Our pick for a slightly breezy afternoon.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
51.617245, -5.021360
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
0m

Marine Protected Area: Castlemartin Coast

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 MAROJAM

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 MAROJAM

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?
The provided data indicates the HMS MAROJAM dive site has a depth of 0m. This suggests the wreck may be at or very near the surface, making it accessible for divers. Always confirm local conditions with a dive operator.
What kind of marine life and wreck features can divers expect to see at the HMS Maori?
At the HMS MAROJAM, divers can expect to explore the features of an 'Anchusa' class sloop, a sailing vessel that sank in 1921. The wreck is classified as showing any portion of its hull or superstructure, offering interesting structural elements to discover. While specific marine life is not detailed in the provided information, wrecks often become artificial reefs attracting various species over time.
How difficult is the HMS Maori dive site, and is it suitable for beginner divers?
The HMS MAROJAM dive site is classified as intermediate difficulty. This suggests it may not be suitable for absolute beginner divers without appropriate supervision or experience. Divers should have a good understanding of wreck diving principles and be comfortable with the conditions.
What is the best time of year to dive the HMS Maori for optimal conditions?
The provided data for the HMS MAROJAM does not specify the best time of year for optimal diving conditions. For general guidance on seasonal diving in the United Kingdom, it's advisable to consult local dive operators or our When to Dive section for typical regional conditions.
What diving certifications are required to dive the HMS Maori wreck?
The provided information for the HMS MAROJAM does not explicitly state specific certification requirements. However, given its intermediate difficulty and status as a wreck dive, divers should typically hold at least an Advanced Open Water certification or a specialty wreck diving certification. Always check with local dive centers in Cornwall & Devon for their specific requirements before planning your dive.
What are the typical visibility and current conditions at the HMS Maori dive site?
The available data for the HMS MAROJAM does not include details on typical visibility or current conditions. These factors can vary significantly based on weather, tides, and local geography in Cornwall & Devon. It is always recommended to consult with local dive operators for the most up-to-date conditions before your dive.