MELITA - Cornwall & Devon

The Melita, what a story. This cutter, lost not once but twice, now rests just off Elizabeth Castle, a mere metre below the surface. We love this site for its accessibility and the sheer narrative of it all. It’s an ideal spot for snorkelers or even just a low-tide paddle with a mask, offering a unique glimpse into maritime history without needing a full dive kit. You'll find the Melita’s timbers spread across the seabed, broken but still substantial, providing shelter for a surprising amount of life. We often spot blennies darting between the planks and small crabs scuttling over the sand. On a calm day, with the sun high, the light filtering down onto the wreck creates a beautiful, dappled effect, illuminating the rusty iron fittings and the dark wood. Our favourite time to visit is on a falling tide, when the water clarity is usually best, and you can really spend time peering into every crevice. It’s a gentle introduction to wreck exploration, perfect for anyone curious about what lies beneath the waves without venturing too deep.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
49.175110, -2.120500
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
1m

Marine Protected Area: Jersey Coast

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 MELITA

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 MELITA

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