ACACIA
Protected Area
Borgue Coast
Why dive here
With 118+ marine species recorded in the area - including dolphins, dwarf minke whales, humpback whales, ocean sunfish (mola mola) and orcas - ACACIA offers some of Northumberland & Northeast's richest wreck diving.
The ACACIA wreck, sitting at just 11 metres, is one of our favourite shallow dives in Northumberland, especially for those blustery days when deeper sites are getting hammered by surge. What was once a fishing vessel, sunk back in 1970, now feels more like an artificial reef, really. We love how the metalwork has softened over the decades, draped in kelp and the kind of robust anemones that thrive in these northern waters. Drop down and you'll find the ACACIA’s bones scattered across a rocky seabed. It’s not a dramatic, intact wreck, but rather a series of intriguing sections. You can poke around the ribs of the hull, often finding inquisitive wrasse darting between the plates, or squat lobsters tucked into any crevice offering shelter. Our pick for a calm, clear day, the ACACIA is perfect for longer bottom times, giving you the chance to really slow down and appreciate how marine life reclaims man-made structures. It’s a photographer’s dream when the light penetrates the green water, illuminating the vibrant colours clinging to the wreck.
Typical ACACIA Dive Profile
Illustrative profile based on site depth and type. Actual dive profiles vary - always follow your dive computer and training.
Safety Notes
Wreck site - avoid penetration without wreck diving certification. Watch for sharp metal and entanglement hazards.
Always perform a 3-minute safety stop at 5m before surfacing.
ACACIA Wreck History
Year Sunk
1970
Vessel Type
fishing vessel
Cause
grounding
The fishing vessel Acacia met its end on a summer day in August 1970. Its final voyage took a disastrous turn when it grounded hard on rocks just south of Garliestown in Wigtown Bay. A tanker, the Onward Progress, came to its aid and managed to pull the stricken vessel free. However, the damage from the rocks was too severe. While under tow, the Acacia sprang a significant leak and, unable to stay afloat, slipped beneath the waves to its final resting place.
Today, the Acacia rests in the shallow waters of Wigtown Bay at a depth of only 11 meters, making it an accessible dive for novices. However, the site is classified as a dangerous wreck. This is likely due to the natural decay of the vessel over the decades, creating potential hazards from collapsing structures, sharp metal, and entanglement risks from old fishing nets. Divers should approach with caution, respecting the wreck's fragile state while exploring the remains of this local fishing boat.
Reviews for ACACIA
Conditions
Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for ACACIA
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