BELLATRIX

Protected Area

Outer Belfast Lough

Why dive here

With 118+ marine species recorded in the area - including dolphins, dwarf minke whales, humpback whales, ocean sunfish (mola mola) and orcas - BELLATRIX offers some of Northumberland & Northeast's richest wreck diving.

Marine lifeDolphins, Dwarf Minke Whales, Humpback Whales, Ocean Sunfish (Mola Mola) and Orcas · 118+ species recorded

CharacterWreck dive · max 7m

StandoutRich in charismatic marine life

Okay, so Bellatrix. This isn't one for your deep wreck enthusiasts, but it's a beauty in its own right, especially for newer divers or anyone who just wants a relaxed poke around. It’s a fishing vessel, only 10.9m long, and it sank after a fire, settling upright on the seabed at a gentle 7 metres. You’ll spot the superstructure still largely intact; the wheelhouse is a highlight, surprisingly complete, and we’ve spent ages just peering in through the windows. What we love most here is the way the light filters down, especially on a sunny day, illuminating the deck and creating these dancing patterns across the rust and the anemones. The wreck is absolutely carpeted in plumose anemones, creating a soft, colourful fuzz over every surface. Keep an eye out for blennies darting in and out of crevices, and we’ve often found small crabs scuttling across the deck. It’s a very calm dive, ideal for working on buoyancy or just enjoying the simple pleasure of a well-preserved, accessible wreck. If you're looking for a gentle introduction to wreck diving, Bellatrix is a fantastic choice; just check the tides for slack water to get the best visibility.

Typical BELLATRIX 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.

Today06:4417:3710h 52m daylightGolden hour 16:48

BELLATRIX Wreck History

Vessel Type

fishing vessel

Cause

fire

The Bellatrix is a small fishing vessel resting in just 7 metres of water off the Northumberland coast. The vessel's career was cut short by a fire that ultimately led to its sinking. Due to its shallow depth and position, it has been officially designated a 'Dangerous Wreck', serving as a reminder to surface traffic of the hazards that lie beneath. For divers, this designation hints at a very accessible site. While small at just under 11 metres long, the Bellatrix offers an excellent opportunity for a shallow exploration, perfect for novice divers, training dives, or as a second dive of the day. The wreckage provides a compact habitat for local marine life, and exploring the remains of the fire-damaged vessel makes for an interesting and easy dive.