Michael Cole-Adams was born in London on 18 February 1927, the son of Walter Alwyn and Lorna Mary Cole-Adams (née Bernard-Smith). Michael Cole-Adams joined the Royal Navy as Cadet (E) on 1 January 1945. He was promoted to Midshipman (E) on 1 September 1945. In December 1946 he was listed as an Acting Lieutenant (E) although his substantive Rank was Sub Lieutenant (E) (seniority 1 December 1946).

Michael Cole-Adams joined HMS DOLPHIN 'for the Submarine Course' in January 1951. On 16 April 1951, his Training Class joined HMS AFFRAY at HMS DOLPHIN for sea training experience. AFFRAY was lost with all hands in the English Channel near the Hurd Deep overnight 16/17 April 1951.