BEN THOMAS - Northumberland & Northeast

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.

Location
Northumberland & Northeast, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
53.881832, -6.260833
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
3m

Wreck History - BEN THOMAS

Vessel Type
fishing vessel
Cause
unknown

The Ben Thomas is a small fishing vessel that met its end off the Northumberland coast, though the specific date and cause of its sinking are not well-documented. It now lies in just 3 metres of water, making it one of the shallowest wreck sites in the region. Despite its shallow depth, it holds a 'Dangerous Wreck' classification, a warning to all who approach. This designation suggests the wreck is unstable, has sharp, protruding metal, or is entangled in a significant amount of lost fishing gear, posing a serious hazard to divers and boats alike.

For the well-prepared diver, the Ben Thomas can be an interesting and convenient exploration. Its shallow depth allows for long bottom times and makes it an excellent option for a second dive of the day or a training site for wreck penetration courses under close supervision. Visibility can be excellent on calm days, revealing a small, compact wreck that is slowly being reclaimed by the sea. Divers should exercise extreme caution, paying close attention to the potential entanglement and snagging hazards that earned the wreck its dangerous classification.

Marine Protected Area: Carlingford Lough Islands

Nearby Dive Sites in Northumberland & Northeast

Nearest Dive Centres to BEN THOMAS

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