MENDI - Cornwall & Devon

The Mendi, sitting at 36 metres, isn't your average wreck dive. This steamship, sunk in 1917, is largely broken up, but its sheer size, at over 112 metres long, means there's a lot of debris field to explore. You’ll weave around sections of the hull, boilers, and machinery, all well-colonised by plumose anemones, dead man's fingers, and plenty of fish like conger eels tucked into crevices. It's a sombre site, certainly, but for experienced divers comfortable with deeper wrecks and typical UK visibility, it offers a tangible link to maritime history and a thriving artificial reef. We'd suggest checking the tides; slack water makes for a far more enjoyable rummage.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.458250, -1.334150
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
36m

Marine Protected Area: Compton Chine to Steephill Cove

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 MENDI

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 MENDI

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 MENDI wreck?
The MENDI wreck is typically dived at a depth of 36 meters. This makes it a fascinating deep dive for those with appropriate training and experience in the waters off Cornwall & Devon.
What kind of marine life and wreck features can divers expect to see at the MENDI dive site?
Divers exploring the MENDI wreck can expect to encounter the remains of a substantial steam ship vessel, built in 1905 and sunk in 1917. Key features include its two boilers and triple expansion engine, along with its impressive dimensions of 112.8m by 14m. This site is classified as a dangerous wreck, offering a unique historical exploration.
How challenging is the MENDI wreck dive, and what level of diving experience is recommended?
The MENDI wreck dive is classified as intermediate in difficulty. Divers should possess a suitable level of experience and training to safely explore this deep wreck at 36 meters in the United Kingdom.
What are the best times of year or tidal conditions to dive the MENDI for optimal visibility and safety?
The provided data does not specify the best times of year or tidal conditions for diving the MENDI wreck. For optimal visibility and safety, it is always recommended to consult local dive operators and current marine forecasts before planning your dive. You can find more general information on when to dive on DivePlnr.
What scuba diving certifications are required or highly recommended for diving the MENDI wreck?
Given the MENDI wreck's depth of 36 meters and its intermediate difficulty rating, an advanced open water certification or equivalent is highly recommended. Divers should also consider specialized training in wreck diving and deep diving to safely navigate this site.
What are the usual current and visibility conditions divers might encounter at the MENDI dive site?
The provided data does not detail the usual current and visibility conditions for the MENDI dive site. Divers planning a trip should consult local dive centers for up-to-date information on prevailing conditions to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Always prioritize safety when diving in new locations.