THISTLEMOR - Cornwall & Devon

The *Thistlemor*, a steamship resting at 20 metres, feels very much like a proper wreck dive, even if she's not quite intact. Built in 1906, she sank in heavy seas in 1909, leaving behind a substantial debris field spread across the seabed. You'll find her two large boilers standing proud, acting as apartment blocks for local wrasse and conger eels. Explore the hull plates and scattered machinery where crabs scuttle, or try spotting nudibranchs on the encrusting life. It's a dive that rewards careful exploration, perfect for those who appreciate history and the persistent reclaiming power of the ocean.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
51.065266, -4.403450
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
20m

Marine Protected Area: Brownsham

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 THISTLEMOR

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 THISTLEMOR

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 Thistlegorm dive site?
The Thistlemor wreck dive site has a maximum depth of 20 meters. This makes it an accessible wreck for divers exploring the waters off Cornwall & Devon.
What kind of cargo and marine life can divers expect to see on the SS Thistlegorm wreck?
The provided data for the Thistlemor wreck does not specify any particular cargo or marine life. However, as a steam ship vessel, divers can expect to explore its structural elements, including its two boilers and triple expansion engine. For general information on marine life in the region, you might explore our wildlife database.
How challenging is diving the SS Thistlegorm, and is it suitable for beginner divers?
Diving the Thistlemor wreck is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive. Due to its classification as a "Dangerous wreck" and intermediate difficulty, it is generally not recommended for beginner divers. Divers should possess appropriate experience and certifications for wreck diving to safely explore this site off Cornwall & Devon.
What are the best months or time of year to dive the SS Thistlegorm for optimal conditions?
The provided data for the Thistlemor wreck does not specify the best months or time of year for optimal diving conditions. For general guidance on seasonal diving in the United Kingdom, you may consult our When to Dive section.
What diving certifications are required to dive the SS Thistlegorm wreck?
While the data does not explicitly list required certifications for the Thistlemor wreck, its intermediate difficulty suggests that advanced open water certification and specialized wreck diving training would be highly beneficial. Divers should always ensure they meet the necessary experience and certification levels for challenging wreck dives.
What are the typical current and visibility conditions at the SS Thistlegorm dive site?
The provided data for the Thistlemor wreck does not include specific details on typical current or visibility conditions. As a "Dangerous wreck" located in Cornwall & Devon, divers should be prepared for potentially variable conditions. It's always advisable to check local dive reports and conditions immediately prior to your dive.