MARGA - Cornwall & Devon

Dropping onto the Marga, you’re met with the distinct shape of a steamship, sitting upright on the seabed. This isn’t a shallow reef dive, so we’d suggest a bit of experience with deeper wreck penetration to really make the most of it. Her 77.5-meter length means there's plenty to explore, with the triple-expansion engine still visible for those who venture inside. Expect to find conger eels tucked into shadowy nooks and crannies, and dead man's fingers clinging to the steel plates. It's a proper British wreck dive; cold water, good visibility on a calm day, and a decent challenge.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.439230, -0.443567
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
50m

Marine Protected Area: Offshore Overfalls

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 MARGA

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 MARGA

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 dives at MARGA?
The MARGA dive site is a wreck located at a depth of 50 meters. This makes it a deep dive, suitable for experienced divers. You can explore this fascinating steam ship vessel at its full depth.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can be found at the MARGA dive site?
The primary underwater feature at MARGA is the impressive steam ship vessel, which sank on March 13, 1951. This 77.5m x 12m wreck provides a unique environment for exploration. While specific marine life is not detailed in the provided data, wrecks commonly attract a variety of local species, making them vibrant artificial reefs; you can learn more about common species in our wildlife database.
Is MARGA considered a difficult dive site for recreational divers?
Yes, MARGA is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive site. With a depth of 50 meters, it is considered a deep dive, requiring appropriate training and experience beyond entry-level certifications. Divers should be comfortable with deep diving procedures and conditions.
What is the best time of year to dive MARGA for optimal conditions and marine life encounters?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year to dive MARGA for optimal conditions or marine life encounters. For general guidance on seasonal diving conditions in the Cornwall & Devon area, you might consult broader resources on when to dive.
What diving certifications are recommended or required to dive at MARGA?
Given that MARGA is an intermediate difficulty dive site with a depth of 50 meters, a deep diver certification is highly recommended, if not required, by local operators. This ensures divers have the necessary training and experience to safely explore such depths and wreck environments. Always check with your dive center for specific requirements.
How strong are the currents and what is the typical visibility at the MARGA dive site?
The provided data for the MARGA dive site does not include information regarding typical current strength or visibility. Divers planning to visit this site should consult local dive operators for up-to-date conditions before their dive.