ROSEHILL - Cornwall & Devon

The Rosehill, a steamship torpedoed in 1917, now rests at 26 metres off the Cornish coast. What you’ll find here is a substantial wreck, broken but still impressive. We usually drop onto the midship section, where her two large boilers are prominent, often swathed in plumose anemones. Look for conger eels tucked into crevices within the engine room remains, and ling frequently cruise the deeper sections. It’s a dive for those who appreciate history and the way the sea reclaims these old vessels, transforming them into thriving artificial reefs. Visibility can be typical for UK waters, so plan for a good day.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
50.329807, -4.308728
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
26m

Marine Protected Area: Whitsand and Looe Bay

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 ROSEHILL

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 ROSEHILL

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 Rosehill dive site and what can divers expect to see there?
The Rosehill dive site has a maximum depth of 26m. Divers can explore the remains of a steam ship vessel, the EX-MINSTER, which was built in 1911 and sunk in 1917 after being torpedoed by UB-40. Key features include its two boilers, triple expansion engine, and single shaft, spread across its 95.7m length and 14m width.
What kind of marine life and wreck features are typically found when diving the Rosehill?
When diving the Rosehill, divers will primarily encounter the impressive wreck features of this steam ship vessel. The site showcases its two boilers, a triple expansion engine, and a single shaft, remnants of its 1911 construction and 1917 sinking. While specific marine life details are not provided, the wreck itself offers a fascinating habitat for various species, which you can learn more about in our wildlife database.
How challenging is the Rosehill dive site, and is it suitable for beginner divers?
The Rosehill dive site is classified as having an intermediate difficulty. Given this classification, it is generally not suitable for beginner divers. Divers should possess appropriate experience and training to safely navigate this 26m deep wreck.
What are the best times or conditions to dive the Rosehill wreck for optimal visibility?
The provided data does not specify the best times or conditions for optimal visibility at the Rosehill wreck. However, planning your dive around slack tide is generally recommended for wreck dives to minimize currents and improve visibility. For general guidance on dive conditions, please refer to our when to dive section.
What scuba diving certifications are required to dive the Rosehill in Plymouth?
While specific certification requirements are not explicitly stated for the Rosehill dive site in Cornwall & Devon, its intermediate difficulty and maximum depth of 26m suggest that divers should hold at least an Advanced Open Water certification or equivalent. This ensures divers have the necessary skills and experience for deeper wreck diving. Always ensure your equipment is suitable for such conditions.
What are the typical currents and underwater conditions like at the Rosehill dive site?
The provided data does not detail the typical currents or specific underwater conditions at the Rosehill dive site. However, as a wreck classified as "Dangerous wreck" at 26m depth, divers should always be prepared for potentially challenging conditions. It is advisable to consult local dive operators for up-to-date information on currents and visibility before planning your dive.