HMS MEDEA - Cornwall & Devon

The HMS Medea, now residing off the coast of Cornwall, is a proper chunk of naval history, and we love a wreck with a story. Originally the Monitor M22, a WWI veteran, she finished her days as a minelaying tender before breaking tow and sinking in 1939. What’s left is a 51-metre-long hull, remarkably intact in places, lying in about 20-25 metres of water. We’d describe her as an absorbing dive, especially if you appreciate the engineering of these old ships. You can trace the deck lines, explore the remnants of her triple-expansion engines, and even poke around the stern where the minelaying gear once would have been. The structure itself is a haven for life – often you'll find conger eels peering out from gaps in the plating, dogfish resting on sandy patches nearby, and schools of bib darting through the interior spaces. Visibility can be a typical Cornish affair, anywhere from a murky five metres to a glorious 15, so pick your day carefully. We find the best conditions usually come with a slack tide around high water. It's a dive that suits those comfortable with deeper wrecks and who enjoy piecing together the past.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.564990, -4.931066
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
0m

Marine Protected Area: Trebetherick 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 MEDEA

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 MEDEA

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 the HMS MEDEA wreck?
The HMS MEDEA wreck is listed with a depth of 0m, suggesting its shallowest point may be at or very near the surface. This makes it accessible for divers to explore the visible portions of its hull or superstructure. Divers can expect to explore this historic minelayer vessel, which was originally built in 1915.
What kind of marine life and historical artifacts can divers expect to see at the HMS MEDEA dive site?
At the HMS MEDEA dive site, divers can expect to explore the historical remains of a minelayer vessel, originally built in 1915 and sunk on January 28, 1939. This wreck itself serves as the primary historical artifact, showcasing its 51.8m x 9.5m dimensions and components like its triple expansion engines. While specific marine life is not detailed in our current data, wrecks often become artificial reefs, attracting various species over time.
How difficult is the HMS MEDEA dive site, and is it suitable for beginner or advanced divers?
The HMS MEDEA dive site is classified as intermediate difficulty. This means it is suitable for certified divers who have some experience beyond basic open water dives. While not recommended for absolute beginners, it offers a rewarding experience for those with moderate diving skills looking to explore a historical wreck.
What is the best time of year to dive the HMS MEDEA for optimal visibility and weather conditions?
Our current data for the HMS MEDEA dive site does not specify the best time of year for optimal visibility or weather conditions. For general guidance on diving in the Cornwall & Devon area, we recommend consulting local dive operators or our When to Dive resource for seasonal insights.
Are there any specific diving certifications or experience levels required to dive the HMS MEDEA?
Given its intermediate difficulty rating, diving the HMS MEDEA typically requires divers to hold certifications beyond entry-level, such as Advanced Open Water Diver or equivalent. Divers should possess experience with wreck diving or similar conditions. It is always advisable to consult with local dive centers in Cornwall & Devon for specific requirements and guidance.
What are the usual current conditions and visibility like at the HMS MEDEA dive site?
Our available data for the HMS MEDEA dive site does not include specific details regarding usual current conditions or visibility. Divers planning to explore this historic wreck should always check with local dive operators in Cornwall & Devon for up-to-date information on daily conditions before their dive.