M 483 - Cornwall & Devon

Dropping onto the M 483, you’re met with a German minesweeper that’s been down since 1943. She’s well-broken now, but you can still pick out the twin boilers and parts of her triple expansion engines. The stern is often a highlight, with the twin rudders and propeller shafts clear to see. Plenty of lobsters and conger eels have made homes in the deeper sections, and we’ve often spotted dogfish resting on the seabed nearby. It’s a good deep dive, best for those comfortable at 40m+, and the currents can pick up, so choose your slack wisely.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
49.450382, -2.253467
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
45m

Marine Protected Area: Gouliot Caves and Headland, Sark

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 M 483

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 M 483

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 divers can expect at the M483 dive site?
Divers exploring the M483 wreck can expect a maximum depth of 45 meters. This depth classifies it as a deeper dive, requiring appropriate training and experience for safe exploration. Always ensure your certification level matches the dive profile.
What specific marine life and wreck features are visible when diving the M483?
When diving the M483, you can expect to see significant wreck features from this 62m x 8.9m minesweeper vessel. Notable components include two boilers, twin triple expansion engines with exhaust steam turbines, a twin rudder, and its armament of one 105mm, seven 20mm AA, and one 37mm AA guns. While the data doesn't specify particular marine life, wrecks like the M483 often become artificial reefs, attracting various species; you can learn more in our wildlife database.
How difficult is the M483 dive, and is it suitable for advanced divers?
The M483 dive is classified as intermediate difficulty. This makes it suitable for divers who have completed their advanced open water certification or have equivalent experience in deeper wreck diving. Its 45-meter depth and wreck characteristics present an engaging challenge for experienced divers.
What are the optimal tidal conditions and time of year for diving the M483 wreck?
The provided data for the M483 dive site does not specify optimal tidal conditions or the best time of year for diving. For current-specific information and seasonal recommendations, we advise consulting local dive operators or checking our When to Dive section for general guidance on the Cornwall & Devon region.
What diving certifications are mandatory for those wishing to explore the M483?
Given the M483's intermediate difficulty and maximum depth of 45 meters, divers would typically need at least an Advanced Open Water Diver certification, or equivalent, to safely explore this site. Specialized wreck diving or deep diving certifications are highly recommended to enhance safety and enjoyment for this type of dive.
What are the typical current strengths and visibility levels at the M483 dive site?
The provided data for the M483 dive site does not include specific information on typical current strengths or visibility levels. These conditions can vary significantly, so it's always best to consult with local dive centers in Cornwall & Devon immediately prior to your dive for the most up-to-date reports.