wreck

Log This Dive

BEN THOMAS

The Ben Thomas is one of those wrecks that just keeps giving, despite its shallow depth. We’re talking three metres here, barely getting your fins wet, but it’s an absolute marvel for photographers and anyone keen on a leisurely explore. This old fishing vessel, tragically lost in the 1980s, is scattered across the seabed in a jumble of metal plates and ribs. You can almost feel the chill of the North Sea even on a calm day, but the clarity here, especially during an incoming tide, often surprises people. What we really love is how completely colonised it’s become. Anemones cling to every surface, waving like tiny, colourful flags, and the nooks and crannies shelter a surprising number of crabs and blennies. We’ve spent whole dives just poking around a single section, finding something new each time. Our favourite part has to be the exposed propeller, often encrusted with dead man’s fingers – it’s a brilliant photo opportunity. It’s a great site for newer divers building confidence, or experienced folks who want to slow down and really observe. Just keep an eye on those boat movements; it is a busy fishing area.