ALARM - Northumberland & Northeast

The Alarm, a lightship sunk back in 1911, sits upright on the seabed at 27 metres. Built of iron by W.H. Potter and Sons, she’s a sturdy wreck with plenty of character. We’ve found her to be a good spot for exploring the davits and the large chain locker, which is usually open. Expect to see plenty of local life - crabs, lobsters, and often a decent amount of pollock hovering around the structure. She’s a solid dive for those comfortable with deeper wrecks, offering a slice of maritime history that’s well colonised by the North Sea’s inhabitants.

Location
Northumberland & Northeast, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
53.522182, -3.515178
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
27m

Marine Protected Area: Liverpool Bay / Bae Lerpwl

Nearby Dive Sites in Northumberland & Northeast

Nearest Dive Centres to ALARM

Marine Life in Northumberland & Northeast

Home to 132 recorded species including 53 reef fish, 15 whales & dolphins, 11 sharks & rays, 10 other, 10 seagrass & algae, 9 crabs & lobsters.

Notable Species

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical maximum depth for recreational divers at the ALARM dive site, and are there any particularly deep sections?
The ALARM dive site has a typical maximum depth of 27 meters. As a wreck, the deepest sections would be around this depth, offering a great experience for divers exploring the remains of this light ship vessel. There are no particularly deeper sections mentioned beyond this maximum depth.
What kind of marine life, coral formations, or unique underwater features can divers expect to encounter at the ALARM dive site?
At the ALARM dive site, divers can expect to encounter the unique underwater feature of the light ship vessel itself, which sank on August 22, 1911. This iron wreck, measuring 36.3m x 6.4m, provides an interesting structure to explore. While specific marine life or coral formations are not detailed in the provided information, wrecks commonly become artificial reefs, attracting various species over time, which you can learn more about in our wildlife database.
How challenging is the ALARM dive site, and what level of diving experience or certification is recommended for it?
The ALARM dive site is classified as having an intermediate difficulty level. This suggests it is suitable for divers who have gained some experience beyond their initial certification. An Advanced Open Water certification or equivalent is generally recommended for intermediate wreck dives to safely manage the 27-meter depth and potential conditions.
What is the best time of year or season to dive the ALARM site for optimal weather, visibility, and marine life encounters?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year or season to dive the ALARM site for optimal weather, visibility, or marine life encounters. For general guidance on diving conditions in the Northumberland & Northeast region, you might consult our When to Dive resource.
Are there any specific scuba diving certifications, beyond Open Water, that are required or strongly advised for diving at the ALARM site?
Given the ALARM dive site's intermediate difficulty and maximum depth of 27 meters, an Advanced Open Water certification is strongly advised. Additionally, considering it is a wreck dive, a PADI Wreck Diver Specialty or equivalent would be highly beneficial for safely exploring this fascinating historical vessel.
What are the typical current conditions and underwater visibility like at the ALARM dive site, and how do they vary?
The provided data for the ALARM dive site does not include specific details on typical current conditions or underwater visibility, nor how they might vary. Divers should consult local dive operators in Northumberland & Northeast for up-to-date information before planning their dive.