MARANA (BOW SECTION) - Cornwall & Devon

The Marana’s bow section is, for us, one of Cornwall’s more evocative shore dives. It sits right in the intertidal zone, so you’re diving it at high tide, maybe an hour either side of the peak. We love how accessible it is; you just wade in and the bow starts to emerge from the sand. You’ll find ribs and plating spread across the rocky seabed, with kelp swaying over the metalwork. This isn’t about huge pelagics, it’s about the smaller, often overlooked creatures. Look for blennies peeking out from under the steel plates, and tiny crabs scuttling amongst the rocks. The light here is often dappled, filtering through the surface, creating a really serene atmosphere. It’s perfect for macro photography, or just a really relaxed potter. Our favourite time to dive it is on a calm, sunny day; the visibility really opens up and the light plays beautifully off the wreckage. Just remember to check those tide tables.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.220875, -3.643407
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
1m

Marine Protected Area: Skerries Bank and Surrounds

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 MARANA (BOW SECTION)

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 MARANA (BOW SECTION)

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 diving the MARANA (BOW SECTION)?
The MARANA (BOW SECTION) dive site is exceptionally shallow, with a typical depth of just 1 meter. This makes it a very accessible dive, often suitable for various experience levels due to its minimal depth.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to encounter at the MARANA (BOW SECTION) dive site?
Divers exploring the MARANA (BOW SECTION) will primarily encounter the distributed remains of this historic steam ship wreck. Sunk in 1891, the 87.2m x 11m vessel offers fascinating structural features to explore. While specific marine life isn't detailed in our data, wrecks typically become artificial reefs, attracting various local species over time.
How difficult is the MARANA (BOW SECTION) dive, and is it suitable for beginner or advanced divers?
The MARANA (BOW SECTION) dive is classified as intermediate difficulty. This suggests it's suitable for divers who have some experience beyond their initial certification, but it may not be ideal for absolute beginners. Advanced divers will also find interesting aspects to explore given the wreck's history and shallow depth.
What is the best time of year to dive the MARANA (BOW SECTION) for optimal visibility and conditions?
Information regarding the best time of year for optimal visibility and conditions at the MARANA (BOW SECTION) is not specifically provided in our current data. For general guidance on diving in the United Kingdom, we recommend consulting our When to Dive section for broader seasonal insights.
Are there any specific scuba diving certifications required to dive the MARANA (BOW SECTION)?
While specific certification requirements for the MARANA (BOW SECTION) are not explicitly listed, its "intermediate" difficulty classification suggests that a basic open water certification and some diving experience would be beneficial. Always check with local dive operators for any specific prerequisites they may have.
What are the usual currents and water conditions like at the MARANA (BOW SECTION) dive site?
Our current data does not provide specific details on the usual currents or water conditions at the MARANA (BOW SECTION) dive site. As conditions can vary, it is always best to consult with local dive centers or guides in Cornwall & Devon for the most up-to-date information before planning your dive.