BANGOR - Northumberland & Northeast

The Bangor, a steamship that went down in 1934, sits upright at a modest 16 metres, making it incredibly accessible for a decent wreck dive in Northumberland. We love that you can follow the line of the hull from stern to bow, imagining her sailing days before she became home to crabs and lobsters. Look closely, and you’ll see the engine room, a jumble of machinery colonised by anemones, offering a glimpse into the ship's guts. For us, the real joy here is exploring the cargo holds, now open to the sea, where you'll often find schools of coalfish darting amongst the shadows. The structure itself, though broken in places, gives a strong sense of its original form, a true dive into history. It's a fantastic site for newer wreck divers or those who prefer to spend their bottom time really getting to know a single wreck intimately.

Location
Northumberland & Northeast, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
54.356667, -5.466667
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
16m

Wreck History - BANGOR

Year Sunk
1934
Vessel Type
cargo ship
Cause
grounding

The SS Bangor was a classic steamship of her era, built in 1894 by Scott & Sons in Bowling, Scotland. For four decades, this hardy vessel, powered by a 67-horsepower compound engine, plied the coastal waters of the UK, faithfully transporting cargo from port to port. Her long career came to an abrupt end during a fierce storm in the winter of 1934 while on passage from Portland.

On February 26th, battling poor visibility and rough seas, the Bangor ran aground and was lost to the waves off the Northumberland coast. Today, she rests in just 16 meters of water, making her an accessible and popular dive for all levels of certified divers. Time and the relentless North Sea have flattened much of her structure, but the wreck is still easily recognizable. Divers can explore the twisted plates and beams, with the most prominent features being her large boiler and the remains of her two-cylinder engine, which stand proud of the seabed. The wreckage has become a thriving artificial reef, attracting ballan wrasse, lobsters, and crabs amidst the kelp-covered steel.

Marine Protected Area: Ballyquintin Point

Nearby Dive Sites in Northumberland & Northeast

Nearest Dive Centres to BANGOR

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 dive depth at the Bangor dive site?
The typical dive depth at the Bangor dive site is 16 meters. This makes it a suitable depth for divers looking to explore a fascinating wreck without extreme depth requirements.
What kind of marine life can divers expect to see at the Bangor dive site?
The provided data for the Bangor dive site does not specify the types of marine life divers can expect to encounter. However, wreck sites often attract a variety of local species seeking shelter and food. For general information on marine life, you can visit our wildlife database.
How difficult is the Bangor dive site, and is it suitable for novice divers?
The Bangor dive site is rated as an intermediate difficulty dive. Given its classification as a "Dangerous wreck," it is generally not suitable for novice divers. Divers should possess the necessary experience and certifications for wreck diving to safely explore this site.
What are the best times or tidal conditions to dive at the Bangor dive site?
The provided data for the Bangor dive site does not specify the best times or tidal conditions for diving. For general guidance on planning your dives, you may find our When to Dive section helpful.
What diving certifications are typically required to dive at the Bangor dive site?
While specific certifications are not explicitly stated for the Bangor dive site, its "intermediate" difficulty and "Dangerous wreck" classification strongly suggest that an Advanced Open Water certification is a minimum requirement. Additionally, specialized wreck diving training would be highly recommended to safely explore this type of site.
What are the usual currents and underwater visibility like at the Bangor dive site?
The provided data for the Bangor dive site does not include details on usual currents or underwater visibility. Divers planning to visit this site should consult local dive operators for the most current conditions.