REDESMERE - Cornwall & Devon

The *Redesmere* is a proper piece of history, resting upright on the seabed at 35 metres. We love a wreck with a story, and this steamship, sunk in 1917, certainly has one. Dropping down, you’ll find the bow section relatively intact, often swathed in schools of pollack darting through the superstructure. Our favourite part is navigating the twin boilers – they’re huge, really giving you a sense of the ship’s scale. Look closely and you’ll spot colourful jewel anemones clinging to the metal, and often a grumpy conger eel peering from a dark recess. It’s a dive for those comfortable with deeper UK waters and a bit of overhead environment, rewarding divers with genuine exploration rather than just a glimpse. We’d suggest a good torch; it gets dark down there, even on a sunny day.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.480778, -1.353585
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
35m

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 REDESMERE

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 REDESMERE

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 maximum depth of the SS Redesmere wreck dive?
The SS Redesmere wreck dive reaches a maximum depth of 35 meters. This makes it an exciting dive for those with appropriate training and experience at the Redesmere dive site.
What marine life and historical artifacts can divers expect to see on the SS Redesmere shipwreck?
The SS Redesmere, a steam ship vessel sunk in 1917, offers a glimpse into maritime history with its structure. Divers can expect to explore its two boilers, triple expansion engine, and single shaft, remnants of its build in 1911 by Sunderland Shipbuilding Co. While specific marine life is not detailed in the provided data, wrecks often become artificial reefs attracting various species, which you can learn more about in our wildlife database.
How challenging is diving the SS Redesmere wreck, and what level of diving experience is recommended?
Diving the SS Redesmere wreck is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive. Given its classification as a "Dangerous wreck" and depth of 35m, divers should possess a suitable level of experience and training for wreck diving at this site in Cornwall & Devon.
What are the optimal times of year to dive the SS Redesmere wreck for the best visibility and conditions?
The provided data does not specify the optimal times of year to dive the SS Redesmere wreck for the best visibility and conditions. For general guidance on planning your dives, you might consult our When to Dive section for tips on seasonal conditions in the Cornwall & Devon area.
What scuba diving certifications are required or highly recommended to dive the SS Redesmere shipwreck?
Given the SS Redesmere wreck's maximum depth of 35 meters and its classification as an intermediate and "Dangerous wreck," divers should have certifications that qualify them for deep and potentially challenging wreck environments. Advanced open water certification and specialized wreck diving training are highly recommended to safely explore this historic dive site.
What are the typical current conditions and visibility like at the SS Redesmere dive site?
The provided data does not include specific information regarding the typical current conditions or visibility at the SS Redesmere dive site. Divers planning a trip to this wreck should consult local dive operators for the most up-to-date conditions before their dive.