MAPLEFIELD (POSSIBLY) - Cornwall & Devon

The Maplefield, lost in 1945, is more than just another wreck off the Cornish coast. At 55 metres, this steamship is a serious deep dive, definitely not one for the casual explorer. We love how intact she is, especially for her age and depth. Dropping down, you’ll first pick out the stern, with the propeller still in place, often shrouded in a shoal of pout. Work your way forward and the triple expansion engine is a highlight, standing proud and still recognisable, a testament to her builders in Lytham. Our favourite part is the bow, often home to conger eels peeking out from behind the plates. The visibility here can be tricky; sometimes it’s a gin-clear 15 metres, other days it’s closer to five, making a good light essential. We’d suggest diving her on a slack tide, which can be short, so good dive planning is key. This is a dive for experienced technical divers, those who appreciate history and a wreck that still feels like a ship, not just a pile of scrap.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
51.451950, -4.908567
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
55m

Marine Protected Area: North West of Lundy

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 MAPLEFIELD (POSSIBLY)

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 MAPLEFIELD (POSSIBLY)

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 typical depth range for scuba diving at Maplefield (possibly Maple Bay Deeper Reef)?
The dive site at Maplefield (possibly Maple Bay Deeper Reef) is a deep dive, with a reported depth of 55m. Divers exploring this wreck site should be prepared for significant depths.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at Maplefield (possibly Maple Bay Deeper Reef)?
Divers at Maplefield (possibly Maple Bay Deeper Reef) will primarily explore the remains of a steam ship vessel, which sank on February 23, 1945. This 43.3m x 8.2m wreck, built in 1941, features a single boiler, triple expansion engine, and single shaft, offering fascinating structural details for underwater exploration. The site is classified as a non-dangerous wreck.
How difficult is the diving at Maplefield (possibly Maple Bay Deeper Reef), and is it suitable for all skill levels?
Diving at Maplefield (possibly Maple Bay Deeper Reef) is classified as intermediate in difficulty. Due to its depth of 55m and the nature of wreck diving, it is not suitable for all skill levels and is best undertaken by experienced divers.
What is considered the best time of year or season to dive at Maplefield (possibly Maple Bay Deeper Reef) for optimal conditions?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year or season for optimal diving conditions at Maplefield (possibly Maple Bay Deeper Reef). For general guidance on planning your dive trips, you might consult our When to Dive section.
Are there any specific diving certifications required to explore Maplefield (possibly Maple Bay Deeper Reef)?
While specific certifications are not explicitly listed in the data, given the 55m depth and intermediate difficulty of diving at Maplefield (possibly Maple Bay Deeper Reef), advanced or technical diving certifications would be highly recommended. Divers should ensure they are adequately trained and equipped for deep wreck dives.
What are the typical current conditions and visibility like at Maplefield (possibly Maple Bay Deeper Reef)?
The available data does not provide specific information regarding the typical current conditions or visibility at Maplefield (possibly Maple Bay Deeper Reef). Divers planning to visit this United Kingdom dive site should consult local dive operators for the most up-to-date conditions.