MADELINE - Cornwall & Devon

The *Madeline* is a big ol' cargo vessel, 95 meters of history resting in 35m of water off Pendeen. We love this wreck not just for its story, sunk by a U-boat in 1918, but for how it feels when you drop down onto it. The sheer scale is impressive; the bow rises up from the seabed, and you can trace the line of the deck all the way back to the stern. It's properly broken up in parts, especially midships, where the torpedo hit, leaving a jumble of twisted metal that creates great little hidey-holes for conger eels – we’ve seen some absolute monsters lurking in the shadowed compartments. Our favourite part is exploring the intact sections of the holds, where you can still make out the remnants of its cargo days. Visibility here can be a bit hit or miss, typical for the UK, but when it’s good, the light filtering down through the superstructure is beautiful, illuminating the jewel anemones that have colonised every surface. It’s a good one for advanced divers who appreciate a substantial wreck and don’t mind a bit of a current. Look out for huge shoals of pouting hanging around the masts and plenty of wrasse darting through the debris.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.333900, -5.417682
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
35m

Marine Protected Area: Godrevy - Portreath

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 MADELINE

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 MADELINE

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 for scuba diving at the Madeleine Islands dive site?
The maximum depth for scuba diving at the Madeline dive site is 35 meters. This depth makes it a suitable dive for those with appropriate deep diving experience and training. Divers should plan their profiles accordingly to ensure a safe and enjoyable exploration of this historic wreck.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at Madeleine Islands?
At the Madeline dive site, divers can explore a significant underwater feature: a merchant vessel wreck. This substantial vessel, measuring 95.7m x 12.3m, was torpedoed and sunk in 1918 during WW1. While specific marine life details are not provided, wrecks commonly serve as artificial reefs, attracting a variety of local marine species over time.
How challenging is diving at Madeleine Islands, and is it suitable for intermediate divers?
Diving at the Madeline dive site is classified as intermediate difficulty. This rating confirms it is indeed suitable for intermediate divers who have some experience beyond basic certification. Divers should be comfortable with wreck diving conditions and the depth of 35 meters.
What are the best months of the year to dive at Madeleine Islands for optimal conditions?
The provided data for the Madeline dive site does not specify the best months of the year for optimal diving conditions. For general guidance on seasonal diving in the region, you may wish to consult our When to Dive section. Local dive operators in Cornwall & Devon can also provide up-to-date information on local conditions.
What scuba diving certifications are recommended or required to dive at Madeleine Islands?
Given the Madeline dive site's maximum depth of 35 meters and its classification as an intermediate wreck dive, an Advanced Open Water certification or a Wreck Diver specialty certification would be highly recommended. These certifications ensure divers have the necessary training and experience for deeper wreck explorations. Always check with local dive centers in Cornwall & Devon for specific requirements before planning your dive.
What are the typical currents, visibility, and water temperatures at the Madeleine Islands dive site?
The available data for the Madeline dive site does not include specific information regarding typical currents, visibility, or water temperatures. These conditions can vary significantly based on weather and season. It's always best to consult with local dive operators in Cornwall & Devon immediately prior to your dive for the most current information. You can also find general information about equipment suitable for varying conditions.