Maine SS - Cornwall & Devon

The Maine SS is one of those wrecks that really gets under your skin. We love how much of the ship is still recognisable, even after all these years on the seabed. You'll drop down onto a hull that feels alive, draped in dead man’s fingers and home to surprisingly curious conger eels. Keep an eye out for dogfish tucked into crevices and the occasional inquisitive pollack shadowing you through the gloom. This site isn't just about the history; it's about the way nature has reclaimed it, turning a tragedy into a thriving artificial reef. We'd suggest checking the tides for slack water, as currents can be a real nuisance here, especially if you want to spend time exploring the deeper sections. It’s a cracker of a dive for anyone who appreciates a good historical wreck with plenty of character.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.212500, -3.848000
Type
wreck

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 SS

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 SS

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