USS TIDE - Cornwall & Devon

The USS Tide is a cracking dive, a real piece of history that grabs you the moment you drop down. We love how intact she is for a wreck that took a mine hit during Operation Neptune back in ‘44; you can still make out the bow and stern quite clearly, with the midships showing the most damage. It’s pretty shallow at 17 metres, making it a great option for extended bottom times and a good fit for newer wreck divers too. What really gets us about the Tide is the marine life that has made this wreck home. The visibility isn't always Caribbean-esque, but when it's good, you’ll find conger eels peering from every dark recess, their heads thick as your arm. The wreck itself is covered in dead man's fingers and colourful jewel anemones, creating these incredible textured carpets that shift and sway in the current. Our favourite spot is exploring the engine room area, where the metalwork is particularly encrusted and you often find decent-sized pollack hovering in the gloom. It’s a proper dive into wartime history, made all the more vivid by the life now thriving on it.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
49.434900, -1.061000
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
17m

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 USS TIDE

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 USS TIDE

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 USS Tide (AM-125) dive site in Normandy?
The USS Tide (AM-125) dive site, located off Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, reaches a maximum depth of 17 meters. It is important to note that this historic wreck is situated in the English Channel, not Normandy. This intermediate-difficulty wreck offers a unique glimpse into maritime history.
What kind of marine life and wreck features can divers expect to see on the USS Tide (AM-125) wreck?
Divers exploring the USS Tide can expect to encounter the remains of a US Navy minesweeper, built in 1943. This vessel, measuring 67.1m in length and 9.8m in width, was damaged by a mine during Operation 'Neptune' and sank on June 7, 1944. While specific marine life is not detailed in the provided data, the wreck itself serves as a significant historical feature. For general information on marine life, you can visit our wildlife database.
How challenging is diving the USS Tide (AM-125) wreck, especially considering its condition after sinking?
Diving the USS Tide is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive. The wreck is also categorized as a "Dangerous wreck" due to its condition after striking a mine off the Cardonnet Bank and sinking a few hours later on June 7, 1944. Divers should be prepared for the challenges associated with exploring a historical vessel that was damaged in conflict.
What are the optimal weather and sea conditions, and time of year, for diving the USS Tide (AM-125) in Normandy?
The provided data does not specify optimal weather and sea conditions or the best time of year for diving the USS Tide (AM-125). It is important to remember that this dive site is located off Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, not Normandy. For general guidance on when to dive, please refer to our When to Dive section.
What scuba diving certifications are required or recommended to dive the USS Tide (AM-125) wreck?
Given that the USS Tide is classified as an intermediate difficulty wreck dive, divers should possess at least an Advanced Open Water certification or equivalent. Experience with wreck diving or specialized wreck diving certifications would be highly recommended to safely navigate this historical and "Dangerous wreck." Proper equipment and training are crucial for such dives.
What are the typical currents, visibility, and water conditions like at the USS Tide (AM-125) dive site?
The provided data for the USS Tide dive site does not include specific information regarding typical currents, visibility, or water conditions. Divers planning to visit this historical wreck should consult local dive operators for the most current and accurate site conditions. Always prioritize safety and local expertise when diving.