ADC 527 (POSSIBLY)
Protected Area
Isle of Whithorn Bay
Why dive here
With 118+ marine species recorded in the area - including dolphins, dwarf minke whales, humpback whales, ocean sunfish (mola mola) and orcas - ADC 527 (POSSIBLY) offers some of Northumberland & Northeast's richest wreck diving.
ADC 527, or ‘Possibly’ as it’s often known, is a deep-water wreck off the Northumberland coast. We love a dive with a bit of history, and this one certainly delivers. Sunk in 1946, this 57-meter vessel went down with a full cargo of unfused 75mm shells and fuses. It’s still considered dangerous, and for good reason – you’ll spot those shells scattered across the seabed and inside the wreck, a stark reminder of its past. Dropping down to 37 meters, the visibility can be variable here, but when it’s good, the structure is impressive. We've had some cracking dives exploring the holds, seeing how the local marine life has really taken over. Expect to find plenty of crabs and lobsters tucked into every nook, with schools of coalfish often circling the main structure. It’s a dark dive, requiring good lights to really appreciate the details and the atmosphere. This site is best suited for experienced cold-water wreck divers comfortable with deep diving and potential currents. Our tip? Aim for slack tide; it makes a big difference to the enjoyment.
Typical ADC 527 (POSSIBLY) Dive Profile
Illustrative profile based on site depth and type. Actual dive profiles vary - always follow your dive computer and training.
Safety Notes
Deep dive (37m) - monitor air consumption closely. Advanced certification recommended.
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.
ADC 527 (POSSIBLY) Wreck History
Year Sunk
1946
Vessel Type
warship
Cause
unknown
Built in Glasgow during the height of World War II in 1942, this military vessel served a critical role, likely as a landing or supply craft. Its service extended just beyond the war, meeting its end on January 8, 1946. Records indicate it was carrying a cargo of 137 tons of explosives, flares, and other munitions when it sank off the coast of Northumberland.
Today, the ADC 527 lies at a depth of 37 meters, offering a challenging dive for experienced wreck enthusiasts. The vessel's purpose is still evident, with its military construction and scattered remnants of its final, dangerous cargo. Divers should exercise extreme caution due to the potential presence of unexploded ordnance. This site is a stark reminder of the war's aftermath, a piece of history preserved in the cold waters of the North Sea.
Reviews for ADC 527 (POSSIBLY)
Conditions
Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for ADC 527 (POSSIBLY)
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