MARIE THERESE

Best months: Jul–Sep

Protected Area

South of Portland

Why dive here

With 176+ marine species recorded in the area - including blue sharks, dolphins, dwarf minke whales, humpback whales and ocean sunfish (mola mola) - MARIE THERESE offers some of Cornwall & Devon's richest wreck diving. Water ranges 10-18°C, warmest July, August, September.

Best timeJul–Sep

WetsuitA 5mm wetsuit

Marine lifeBlue Sharks, Dolphins, Dwarf Minke Whales, Humpback Whales and Ocean Sunfish (Mola Mola) · 176+ species recorded

Water10-18°C · warmest July, August, September

CharacterWreck dive · max 52m

StandoutExceptional marine biodiversity

The *Marie Therese*, a 42-meter trawler, sits upright on the seabed at 52 meters. It’s a deep dive, no question, but for those with the training, it’s a proper expedition. You drop onto the stern, which still has parts of the trawl gear visible, lines draped like forgotten washing. We love the way the light filters down, even at this depth, giving the wreck an eerie, blue glow. The wheelhouse is mostly intact, offering a glimpse into the trawler's working life. Inside, you can imagine the skipper at the helm, navigating these very waters. Over the years, jewel anemones have formed incredible carpets, reds and oranges bursting from the metalwork. Conger eels have made themselves very much at home, peeking out from every dark recess – we’ve seen some absolute monsters here. Keep an eye out for dogfish tucked into the sand nearby, often resting in the slight current. This isn't a dive for casual exploration; it’s for technical divers looking for a significant wreck and the quiet solitude that comes with diving deep. We'd suggest calm conditions for the surface interval, as the run out to the site can get choppy.