HMS MICHAEL CLEMENTS - Cornwall & Devon

The HMS Michael Clements isn’t just another sunken trawler; she’s a proper time capsule, sitting upright and largely intact at 45 metres. We love how the visibility here, often 10-15 metres on a good day, lets you appreciate her full profile from bow to stern. It’s deep, so this is one for the experienced trimix crowd, but the rewards are there. Dropping down, the ship really starts to materialise through the green. You can still make out the forecastle, the bridge area, and that single boiler midships – a real focal point. Our favourite part is exploring the stern, where the prop shaft leads away into the gloom. Schools of whiting often shimmer around the superstructure, and we’ve seen some hefty conger eels peeking out from the darker corners of the holds. Look closely in the engine room for the triple-expansion engine, surprisingly well preserved. It’s a quiet, reflective dive, perfect for those who appreciate the history embedded in steel, far from the crowds. Go on a slack tide for the best chance to really soak it all in.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.358130, -1.484017
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
45m

Marine Protected Area: Wight-Barfleur Reef

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 MICHAEL CLEMENTS

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 MICHAEL CLEMENTS

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 Michael Clements dive site?
The HMS Michael Clements dive site has a maximum depth of 45 meters. This makes it a significant dive for those exploring the waters off Cornwall & Devon in the United Kingdom.
What kind of marine life and historical artifacts can divers expect to see on the HMS Michael Clements wreck?
Divers exploring the HMS Michael Clements wreck can expect to encounter the remains of a 'Mersey' type trawler, built in 1917 and sunk in 1918. Historical artifacts include its single boiler and triple expansion engine of 590 IHP, characteristic of its service as an auxiliary patrol vessel. Specific details on marine life are not provided in the current data for this site, but wrecks often attract diverse ecosystems.
What is the diving difficulty level for the HMS Michael Clements wreck, and is it suitable for advanced recreational divers?
The HMS Michael Clements wreck is classified with an intermediate diving difficulty level. Given its maximum depth of 45 meters, it is generally suitable for advanced recreational divers who are properly trained and experienced in deep diving. Divers should ensure they have the appropriate certifications for such depths.
What are the typical current and visibility conditions when diving the HMS Michael Clements in the English Channel?
Information regarding the typical current and visibility conditions for diving the HMS Michael Clements in the English Channel is not available in the provided data. Divers planning a trip to Cornwall & Devon should consult local dive operators for up-to-date conditions before diving.
What are the recommended certifications required to dive the HMS Michael Clements wreck, given its depth and location?
Given the HMS Michael Clements wreck's maximum depth of 45 meters and its intermediate difficulty, divers are typically recommended to hold certifications such as Advanced Open Water Diver and a Deep Diver specialty. These certifications ensure divers have the necessary training and experience to safely manage the challenges associated with deeper wreck dives in areas like Cornwall & Devon.
What is the best time of year or tidal conditions to dive the HMS Michael Clements for optimal experience?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year or optimal tidal conditions for diving the HMS Michael Clements wreck. For the most optimal experience, divers should consult local dive centers in Cornwall & Devon or refer to DivePlnr's When to Dive section for general guidance on diving in the United Kingdom.