ANGOLA - Northumberland & Northeast

Angola is a proper classic, the kind of wreck we love returning to in Northumberland. It's a steamship, sunk way back in 1887, and she sits upright on a sandy seabed at 16 metres. When you drop down, the first thing you notice is how intact she still feels, even after all this time. You can really get a sense of her shape, the bow and stern are distinct, and that single boiler still stands proud, a real focal point. The character of Angola comes from her age and how the North Sea has claimed her. She’s encrusted in dead man’s fingers, which glow orange and white in your torch beam, and you’ll find plenty of plumose anemones swaying in the gentle surge. Look closely in the nooks and crannies for squat lobsters, and we often spot wolf fish tucked away, just peering out. It’s a site that rewards a slow, methodical explore, tracing the deck lines, peeking into cargo holds. Best dived on slack water, of course, to fully appreciate her scale. It’s not a deep dive, making it perfect for divers who want to spend some quality time soaking in a bit of maritime history.

Location
Northumberland & Northeast, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
53.533436, -3.332146
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
16m

Wreck History - ANGOLA

Year Sunk
1887
Vessel Type
cargo ship
Cause
grounding
Tonnage
1,146 GRT

The SS Angola was a typical British cargo steamer of the late Victorian era. Built in Liverpool in 1880, the 1,146 GRT vessel was powered by a 120-horsepower compound steam engine, dutifully plying the trade routes of Northern Europe for her owners, Halton & Cookson of Liverpool.

On March 5th, 1887, the Angola was on a routine voyage from Hamburg to Newcastle, carrying a general cargo. As she neared the English coast, she encountered thick fog and heavy seas. The poor visibility proved fatal, and the ship ran aground on the notorious Hasborough Sands. She managed to pull free from the sandbank, but the damage was done; she was taking on water faster than her pumps could handle. The crew had no choice but to abandon ship before the Angola foundered and slipped beneath the waves, coming to rest on the seabed off the Farne Islands.

At a depth of 16 meters, the wreck of the Angola is a fantastic dive for a wide range of experience levels. While over a century of immersion has left the wreck well-broken, her most substantial components, including her single boiler and the remains of her compound engine, are still clearly identifiable. The site is a haven for marine life, with colourful anemones and soft corals adorning the metalwork. Divers exploring the wreckage are often greeted by the area's famous inquisitive grey seals, adding a memorable wildlife encounter to this historic dive.

Marine Protected Area: Liverpool Bay / Bae Lerpwl

Nearby Dive Sites in Northumberland & Northeast

Nearest Dive Centres to ANGOLA

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 best time of year to scuba dive in Angola for good visibility and calm sea conditions?
The provided data for the Angola dive site does not specify the best time of year for optimal visibility or calm sea conditions. For general guidance on seasonal diving conditions, you might consult our When to Dive resource. We recommend checking local dive operators for current conditions before planning your trip.
What marine life and underwater features, such as coral reefs or wrecks, can divers expect to encounter in Angola?
Divers visiting Angola can expect to encounter a fascinating wreck site. This is the steam ship vessel Angola, built in 1880 and sunk on March 5, 1887, measuring 79.2m x 8.8m. While the data does not detail specific marine life or coral reefs, wrecks often become artificial reefs teeming with various species.
What are the typical water currents and visibility like at Angola's dive sites, and how do they impact diving difficulty?
The Angola dive site is classified with an intermediate difficulty. While specific details on typical water currents and visibility are not provided in the data, these factors are commonly significant contributors to a dive site's overall difficulty rating. Divers should be prepared for conditions that warrant an intermediate skill level.
What are the common depths for recreational scuba diving in Angola, and are there opportunities for deeper technical dives?
The common depth for recreational scuba diving at the Angola dive site is 16 meters. The provided data does not specify opportunities for deeper technical dives beyond this depth. Divers interested in technical diving should consult with local dive centers for further information.
What level of scuba diving certification is generally required or recommended for diving in Angola?
Given that the Angola dive site is classified as having an intermediate difficulty, a certification level beyond Open Water Diver, such as Advanced Open Water Diver or equivalent, is generally recommended. This ensures divers have the necessary skills and experience to safely navigate the conditions.
Is scuba diving in Angola generally considered suitable for beginner divers, or are most sites more challenging for experienced divers?
Scuba diving at the Angola dive site is classified as having an intermediate difficulty. Therefore, it is generally considered more challenging and suitable for experienced divers rather than beginners. Beginners may find the conditions at this wreck site too demanding.