MONTE MORO - Cornwall & Devon

Monte Moro is one of those wrecks that just keeps giving, even at its shallow depth. We love how the steamship has settled, broken but not scattered, making it perfect for a leisurely explore. Dropping down, you'll spot the two huge boilers first, standing proud from the seabed like silent sentinels. They’re a real magnet for schooling pollack, often so thick you can barely see the metal underneath. Our favourite part is poking around the bow and stern sections; the holds are still surprisingly intact. You’ll weave through the metal skeleton, often finding velvet swimming crabs scuttling in the shadows or conger eels peeking out from behind a twisted beam. It’s a shallow dive, maxing out at 14m, so your bottom time feels generous, letting you really soak in the history and the marine life that has made this iron hulk its home. Look for the way the light filters through the broken plates on a sunny day – it’s quite ethereal. We'd suggest going on a slack tide for the best visibility; a gentle current can kick up a bit of sediment, but it’s rarely strong enough to be an issue.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
51.225487, -4.002290
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
14m

Marine Protected Area: Hele, Samson's and Combe Martin Bays

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 MONTE MORO

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 MONTE MORO

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 at Monte Moro (El Morro)?
The typical depth for diving at Monte Moro is 14 meters. This makes it a relatively shallow wreck dive, offering an accessible experience for many certified divers. The site features the remains of a steam ship vessel, providing an interesting exploration at this depth.
What kind of marine life and underwater formations can divers expect to see at Monte Moro (El Morro)?
Divers at Monte Moro can expect to explore a fascinating steamship wreck, which was built in 1875 and sank on August 4, 1876. This substantial vessel measures 83.8m x 10.5m and features two boilers and a compound expansion engine. While specific marine life is not detailed, wrecks like Monte Moro typically become artificial reefs, attracting a variety of local marine species that divers can observe.
How difficult is diving at Monte Moro (El Morro) and is it suitable for beginners?
Diving at Monte Moro is classified as intermediate difficulty. This means it is generally not suitable for absolute beginners. Divers with some experience and appropriate certifications will find it an enjoyable and manageable dive, allowing them to safely explore this historic wreck.
What is the best time of year to dive at Monte Moro (El Morro) for good visibility and conditions?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year for diving at Monte Moro or typical visibility and current conditions. For up-to-date information on seasonal conditions and to plan your dive, it's always best to consult local dive operators in Cornwall & Devon. You can also check our When to Dive section for general guidance.
What scuba diving certifications are required to dive at Monte Moro (El Morro)?
Given its intermediate difficulty rating, divers exploring Monte Moro should possess at least an Advanced Open Water certification or equivalent experience. It is always recommended to check with local dive centers in Cornwall & Devon for their specific requirements and guidance to ensure a safe and enjoyable dive.
What are the typical current and visibility conditions at Monte Moro (El Morro) dive site?
The provided data does not include specific information regarding typical current or visibility conditions at the Monte Moro dive site. For the most current and accurate details on these conditions, we highly recommend contacting local dive operators in Cornwall & Devon. They can provide real-time insights to help you plan your dive.