BOY BAILEY - Northumberland & Northeast

Forget what you think you know about UK wreck diving. The Boy Bailey, a fishing vessel that went down in 2011, isn't deep. In fact, it's barely submerged at high tide, its superstructure often breaking the surface. This makes it an absolute joy for snorkelers, freedivers, and even just keen photographers with a decent waterproof camera. We love how accessible it is, sitting off the Blyth pier. You can practically walk to it at low water. Despite its shallow nature, the wreck is surprisingly intact and has become a genuine haven for local marine life. You’ll find crabs scuttling amongst the twisted metal, small pollack darting through the wheelhouse, and anemones clinging to every available surface. It’s a fantastic spot to practice your buoyancy or just enjoy a very relaxed dip, soaking in the atmosphere without the pressure of depth or complex navigation. We often go at slack water around high tide, when the visibility tends to be at its best. It’s a proper eye-opener.

Location
Northumberland & Northeast, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
54.919000, -3.353833
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
1m

Wreck History - BOY BAILEY

Year Sunk
2011
Vessel Type
fishing vessel
Cause
unknown

The Boy Bailey is a very modern wreck, having sunk on October 8, 2011. The fishing vessel's nets reportedly snagged on the seabed, causing the boat to rapidly capsize and sink, though thankfully its crew was rescued. Resting in just 1 metre of water, this wreck is barely submerged and may even be exposed at low tide. This makes it less of a traditional scuba dive and more of an objective for snorkelers or divers on a high-tide exploratory trip. As with many recent fishing vessel wrecks, it is classified as dangerous due to the high risk of entanglement from nets, ropes, and other fishing gear. Extreme caution is advised for anyone approaching this very shallow site.

Marine Protected Area: Solway Firth

Nearby Dive Sites in Northumberland & Northeast

Nearest Dive Centres to BOY BAILEY

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