MAINE - Cornwall & Devon

Diving the Maine offers a proper British wreck experience. This 110-metre steamship went down in 1917, and time has done its work, but there’s still plenty to explore. We’ve finned past the triple-expansion engine, imagining the power it once held, and you can pick out the three large boilers fairly easily. It’s now home to conger eels, tucked deep inside the metalwork, and we’ve seen plenty of bib and pollack darting around the structure. At 28 metres, it’s a good one for advanced open water divers who appreciate a historical wreck that’s become a living reef. Expect the usual UK visibility, which means sometimes it’s brilliant, sometimes it’s a bit moody.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.214268, -3.849483
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
28m

Marine Protected Area: Start Point to Plymouth Sound & Eddystone

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 MAINE

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 MAINE

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 are the typical depths for scuba diving in Maine, and how cold does the water get at those depths?
For scuba diving at the Maine wreck, typical depths are around 28 meters. Information regarding specific water temperatures at these depths is not available in our current data. Divers should always consult local dive centers for up-to-date water conditions.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see when diving in Maine?
Divers exploring the Maine wreck can expect to encounter the impressive remains of a 110m x 14m steam ship vessel, which sank on March 23, 1917. Key underwater features include its three boilers, triple expansion engine, and single shaft. While specific marine life sightings are not detailed, wrecks commonly attract a variety of local marine species seeking shelter and food.
How challenging is scuba diving in Maine, considering the water conditions and entry points?
Scuba diving at the Maine wreck is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive. Furthermore, the site is designated as a "Dangerous wreck," indicating potential hazards that require careful planning and execution. Divers should be prepared for the challenges associated with exploring such a significant historical site.
What is the best time of year to go scuba diving in Maine for optimal conditions and visibility?
Information regarding the best time of year to dive the Maine wreck for optimal conditions and visibility is not available in our current data. For general guidance on seasonal diving, please refer to our When to Dive section. We recommend checking with local dive operators for the most current conditions before planning your trip.
Are there any specific scuba diving certifications or experience levels recommended for diving in Maine?
Given that the Maine wreck is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive, it is recommended for divers with appropriate experience and certifications. Divers should possess advanced open water certification or equivalent experience in wreck diving. Due to its classification as a "Dangerous wreck," additional specialized training or guided dives may be beneficial.
What are the typical current conditions and visibility divers should be aware of at Maine's dive sites?
Specific details regarding typical current conditions and visibility at the Maine dive site are not provided in our current information. Divers are advised to consult local dive centers or experienced guides for the most up-to-date reports on currents and visibility before planning their dive. Always prioritize safety and current conditions when exploring any dive site.