ORMINSTER - Cornwall & Devon

The *Orminster* is a proper dive, a deep expedition for those who know their way around a twinset. She’s a big steamship, 117 metres long, built in 1914 and sunk by a U-boat in 1944. Dropping down, you’ll start to pick out her vast silhouette at around 30 metres, the deck a jumble of collapsed plates and machinery. We find the bow section particularly striking; it’s still fairly intact, an imposing steel wall covered in dead men's fingers and anemones. Penetration is possible in some areas, but we'd only recommend it for divers with specific wreck training and proper gas management. The engine room is a highlight if you can get inside, a dark cavern where conger eels lurk in every void. On the exterior, schools of pollack often swirl around the superstructure, and we’ve seen some decent lobsters tucked into crevices. This site really suits experienced technical divers who appreciate historical wrecks and the challenge of a deeper dive; it’s not for the faint-hearted or those new to overhead environments. Expect chilly water, even in summer, so drysuits are a must. We find the slack water around high tide offers the calmest conditions for descent and ascent.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.159035, -0.713617
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
49m

Marine Protected Area: Dolphin Head Highly Protected Marine Area

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 ORMINSTER

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 ORMINSTER

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 the ORMINSTER dive site?
The ORMINSTER dive site is a deep wreck dive, with a typical depth of 49m. This makes it suitable for divers with advanced training and experience in deep diving, as it falls outside the recreational limits for many certifications.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at the ORMINSTER dive site?
The primary underwater feature at the ORMINSTER dive site is the impressive wreck of a steam ship vessel, measuring 117.3m x 15.8m. This historic vessel, sunk in 1944, offers a fascinating exploration opportunity for divers interested in maritime history. While specific marine life is not detailed in the provided data, wrecks often become vibrant artificial reefs, attracting various species over time.
How difficult is the ORMINSTER dive site, and is it suitable for beginner divers?
The ORMINSTER dive site is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive. With a depth of 49m, it is not suitable for beginner divers and requires appropriate training and experience in deep and wreck diving. Divers should ensure they have the necessary certifications and skills for such challenging conditions.
When is the best time of year to dive the ORMINSTER site for optimal conditions and marine life sightings?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year to dive the ORMINSTER site for optimal conditions or marine life sightings. For general information on seasonal diving conditions in the United Kingdom, please refer to our When to Dive section.
What scuba diving certifications are required or recommended to dive at the ORMINSTER site?
Given the ORMINSTER dive site's intermediate difficulty and depth of 49m, advanced certifications such as Deep Diver and Wreck Diver specialties are highly recommended. Divers should possess the necessary training and experience to safely navigate deep wreck environments. Always dive within your certification limits and comfort zone.
What are the typical currents, surge, and visibility conditions at the ORMINSTER dive site?
The provided data does not include specific information regarding typical currents, surge, or visibility conditions at the ORMINSTER dive site. Divers planning to visit this historic wreck should consult local dive operators in Cornwall & Devon for the most up-to-date conditions before planning their dive.