MOSEL - Cornwall & Devon

The Mosel, off Bass Point, isn't a deep dive, sitting at around 11 metres, which makes it accessible for many. This steamship met its end in 1882 while heading to New York, and it's quite spread out now, a testament to the years it's spent on the seabed. We often find conger eels tucked into the twisted metal, and the general structure provides plenty of nooks for crabs and smaller fish. It's a good wreck for getting a feel for history without the pressure of depth or strong currents, a decent afternoon dive if you're in the area.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
49.963660, -5.184358
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
11m

Marine Protected Area: Lizard Point

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 MOSEL

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 MOSEL

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 diving depth in the Mosel River, and are there any deeper areas accessible to recreational divers?
The Mosel dive site, located in Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, has a typical diving depth of 11m. The provided data indicates this as the primary depth for the wreck. There is no information suggesting deeper areas accessible to recreational divers at this specific site.
What kind of marine life, underwater features, or historical artifacts can divers expect to see when diving in the Mosel?
Divers exploring the Mosel dive site can expect to encounter the impressive remains of a steam ship vessel, which sank on August 9, 1882. This wreck measures 106.4m x 12.3m and is classified as a dangerous wreck. Historically, it carried a valuable cargo of specie mail and 400 tons of English woolen goods, offering a glimpse into its past.
How challenging is diving in the Mosel River, especially regarding currents, and is it suitable for beginner divers?
Diving at the Mosel dive site is classified as intermediate difficulty. Due to its classification as an intermediate and dangerous wreck, it is generally not suitable for beginner divers. The provided data does not specify information regarding currents at this particular site.
What is the best time of year to dive in the Mosel for optimal conditions, such as visibility and water temperature?
The provided data for the Mosel dive site does not include specific information regarding the best time of year for optimal conditions, such as visibility or water temperature. For general guidance on seasonal diving conditions, you might consult our When to Dive resource.
What specific diving certifications are required or highly recommended for diving in the Mosel, particularly for river or drift diving?
Given that the Mosel dive site is an intermediate-difficulty wreck and classified as a dangerous wreck, specific certifications for wreck diving are highly recommended. This site is not associated with river or drift diving. Divers should possess the necessary experience and training to safely navigate such an environment.
What are the typical water conditions and visibility like in the Mosel River for diving, and how strong are the currents?
The provided data for the Mosel dive site does not include specific details regarding typical water conditions, visibility, or the strength of currents. Divers planning to visit this site should consult local dive operators for the most current information on these conditions.