MEDOC - Cornwall & Devon

The Medoc, a steamship sunk in 1940 by German aircraft, lies upright at 52 metres near the Eddystone Lighthouse. She's a big girl, 72 metres long, and while the torpedo hit broke her back, there's still plenty to see in her structure. Penetration isn't really an option, but we love swimming along the decks, peeking into the cargo holds, and seeing the propeller. Look out for conger eels hiding in the darker recesses and the usual suspects of pollack and bib darting through the superstructure. This is a site for experienced divers comfortable with deeper wrecks and potential currents.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.252630, -4.237543
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
52m

Marine Protected Area: Rame Head

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 MEDOC

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 MEDOC

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

How deep is the Medoc dive site, and what is the maximum depth divers can reach on the wreck?
The Medoc dive site reaches a depth of 52 meters. Divers can explore the wreck down to this maximum depth, making it a deep dive experience.
What marine life and wreck features can divers expect to see when diving the Medoc?
When diving the Medoc, divers can expect to explore the remains of a 72.2m x 10.4m steam ship vessel, built in 1930. This non-dangerous wreck, sunk in 1940, offers a historical dive experience near the Eddystone Lighthouse. Information regarding specific marine life at this site is not available in the provided data.
What is the difficulty level of diving the Medoc wreck, and is it suitable for advanced divers?
The Medoc wreck is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive. While suitable for experienced divers, it requires appropriate training and experience for its depth of 52 meters. Advanced divers with deep diving certifications will find this site an engaging challenge.
What is the best time of year to dive the Medoc for optimal conditions and visibility?
Information regarding the best time of year to dive the Medoc for optimal conditions and visibility is not available in the provided data. We recommend checking local dive operator reports or our When to Dive section for general guidance on diving in Cornwall & Devon.
What specific dive certifications are required or highly recommended to safely explore the Medoc wreck?
Given the Medoc wreck's depth of 52 meters and intermediate difficulty, certifications beyond entry-level are highly recommended. Divers should possess advanced deep diving certifications, such as PADI Deep Diver or equivalent, to safely explore this site. Technical diving certifications may also be beneficial for extended bottom times.
What are the typical current conditions and underwater visibility like at the Medoc dive site?
Details regarding typical current conditions and underwater visibility at the Medoc dive site are not provided in the available data. Divers planning to visit this Cornwall & Devon wreck should consult local dive centers for up-to-date reports on conditions.