EMPIRE BAY - Northumberland & Northeast

We always come back to Empire Bay, a proper piece of history resting just off the Northumberland coast. It's a fantastic dive, especially if you love a bit of structure and atmosphere. Dropping onto her, you immediately feel the scale of this steamship, sunk back in '42. The bow section is our favourite part, just bursting with nooks and crannies. You can swim through some of the cargo holds, imagining the goods she once carried, and the twin boilers really stand out, looming large in the low visibility. Visibility can be a real North Sea lottery, but when it’s good, say 5-8 metres, the Empire Bay absolutely shines. Even on an average day, the sheer density of life clinging to the metal is impressive. Crabs scuttle from every dark corner, plump lobsters peek from beneath plates, and we’ve seen some seriously large cod cruising the deck. It’s a site that tells a story, a poignant reminder of wartime losses, but now a thriving ecosystem. We'd suggest this one for advanced open water divers comfortable with low visibility and a bit of current; it’s not particularly deep at 14 metres, but you need to be mindful of entanglement and the occasional surge.

Location
Northumberland & Northeast, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
54.685900, -1.145567
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
14m

Marine Protected Area: Teesmouth and Cleveland Coast

Nearby Dive Sites in Northumberland & Northeast

Nearest Dive Centres to EMPIRE BAY

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

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical diving depth at Empire Bay?
The typical diving depth at Empire Bay is 14 meters. This relatively shallow depth makes the site accessible for divers with intermediate experience, allowing ample bottom time to explore the wreck.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at Empire Bay?
Divers visiting Empire Bay can explore the fascinating remains of a steam ship vessel, built in 1940 and sunk on January 15, 1942. The wreck features two boilers, a triple expansion engine of 255HP, and a single shaft, with machinery located aft. While specific marine life is not detailed, wrecks like this often become vibrant artificial reefs, attracting various species over time.
How challenging is diving at Empire Bay for different skill levels?
Diving at Empire Bay is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive. Due to its classification as a "Dangerous wreck," it requires divers to have appropriate training and experience for wreck diving. This site is best suited for divers who are comfortable with wreck environments and possess the necessary skills.
What is the best time of year to go diving at Empire Bay for optimal conditions?
Information regarding the best time of year for optimal diving conditions at Empire Bay is not available in the provided data. For general guidance on seasonal conditions and planning your dive trips, please refer to our When to Dive section.
What scuba diving certifications are required to dive at Empire Bay?
Given that Empire Bay is an intermediate difficulty dive and classified as a "Dangerous wreck," divers should possess certifications appropriate for wreck diving. While specific certifications are not listed, an Advanced Open Water Diver certification or a Wreck Diver Specialty certification would be highly recommended to safely explore this site.
What are the typical water conditions and currents like at the Empire Bay dive site?
The provided data does not include specific information about the typical water conditions or currents at the Empire Bay dive site. Divers planning a trip should consult local dive operators for the most current conditions before diving.