EMPIRE TANA - Northumberland & Northeast

The Empire Tana, a steamship scuttled in 1941, rests in very shallow water, making it a good choice for newer wreck divers or those looking for a longer bottom time. At only 5 metres, it’s a site where you can take your time exploring the collapsed remains of the hull and superstructure. We've found the wreck provides plenty of nooks and crannies for crabs and lobsters, and the skeletal framework often hosts shoals of coalfish. It’s a site that rewards careful searching rather than grand vistas. Expect a cool temperate dive, even in summer.

Location
Northumberland & Northeast, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
54.389550, -5.573417
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
5m

Marine Protected Area: Strangford Lough

Nearby Dive Sites in Northumberland & Northeast

Nearest Dive Centres to EMPIRE TANA

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 maximum depth for diving the Empire Tana wreck?
The maximum depth for diving the Empire Tana wreck is 5 meters. This relatively shallow depth makes it accessible for many divers, offering a unique opportunity to explore a historical steam ship.
What kind of marine life and wreck features can divers expect to see at the Empire Tana dive site?
The Empire Tana is a fascinating steam ship vessel, measuring 123.8m x 16.5m, offering significant wreck features for exploration. Divers can expect to see portions of its hull or superstructure, as it is classified as a wreck showing such features. While specific marine life is not detailed in the provided data, wrecks often become artificial reefs, attracting various species, which you can learn more about in our wildlife database.
How challenging is the Empire Tana as a dive site, and is it suitable for beginner divers?
The Empire Tana is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive site. While its shallow depth of 5 meters might seem suitable for beginners, the 'intermediate' rating suggests that certain conditions or features require more experience. Therefore, it may not be ideal for absolute beginner divers without appropriate supervision or prior experience in similar conditions.
What are the best times or tidal conditions to dive the Empire Tana wreck?
The provided data does not specify the best times or tidal conditions for diving the Empire Tana wreck. We recommend consulting local dive operators or resources for when to dive specific to the Northumberland & Northeast area to get up-to-date information on optimal diving conditions.
What scuba diving certifications are recommended or required to dive the Empire Tana, especially for wreck penetration?
Given the Empire Tana is an intermediate dive site, divers should possess at least an Advanced Open Water certification or equivalent experience. The data does not explicitly state if wreck penetration is possible or recommended, nor does it specify required certifications for such activities. For any potential wreck penetration, specialized wreck diving certifications and appropriate equipment would typically be required.
What are the typical currents and visibility like at the Empire Tana dive site?
The provided data does not include specific information regarding the typical currents or visibility at the Empire Tana dive site. For the most current and accurate details on these conditions, it is always best to consult with local dive centers or experienced guides familiar with diving in Northumberland & Northeast.