wreck

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ESTHER

The Esther might sit at 0m, but don't let that fool you. This isn't a snorkel site, folks. It’s a proper dive for those who love a bit of history and don't mind getting their fins wet in slightly chillier climes. She’s a barge, sunk back in 1890 after a run-in with the LTV Mars, just outside Garston Dock. What we love about the Esther is how time has shaped her. You'll find her broken up, scattered across the seabed, but the sheer scale of the wreckage is impressive. Think twisted metal, hull plates lying like fallen giants, and the ghost of her superstructure peeking out from the gloom. Visibility can vary here, as with many North East sites, but when it’s good, you can really make out the different sections. It's a fantastic spot for finding a whole range of critters: wrasse darting through the skeletal remains, crabs scuttling over corroded beams, and sometimes even a curious seal popping by for a look. We'd suggest timing your dive around slack water; the currents can pick up, making it a less enjoyable rummage. It’s a dive that rewards slow exploration, peering into every nook and cranny.