CASTLE ISLAND

Protected Area

Ballymacormick Point

Why dive here

With 118+ marine species recorded in the area - including dolphins, dwarf minke whales, humpback whales, ocean sunfish (mola mola) and orcas - CASTLE ISLAND 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 5m

StandoutRich in charismatic marine life

Castle Island isn’t about huge pelagics or endless visibility; it’s a brilliant little wreck dive that punches above its weight. We love it for its intimacy and the way the local marine life has really made it home. This 1922 steamship, the *SS Castle Island*, went down less than a year after launch, striking Brigs Reef. Now, resting in just 5m of water, it’s remarkably intact for such a shallow wreck. You’ll find the bow section relatively complete, with plates and ribs still holding their shape. Our favourite part is exploring the single boiler, a real focal point, now covered in colourful anemones – a fantastic contrast against the dark metal. Shoals of coalfish often swirl around the structure, and if you take your time, you’ll spot blennies peeking from crevices and crabs scuttling over the plates. We’d suggest diving this one at slack tide, especially around high water, to avoid any surge and get the best ambient light. It’s perfect for newer wreck divers or those looking for a relaxed, critter-focused exploration.