FB 289 AND 292 (PROBABLY) - Northumberland & Northeast

Right, the FB 289 and 292, or what we’re pretty sure is them, are properly unique. We’re talking about two Mersey Docks & Harbour Board barges, scuttled here back in the day, sitting upright at 39 metres. It’s a proper dive into industrial history, the sheer scale of these working boats, now completely reclaimed by the North Sea. The steel is heavily encrusted, painted in a thick layer of plumose anemones, which shimmer under your torch beam. You'll find ling snaking through the holds, their eyes reflecting the light, and hefty crabs scuttling over the decking. We love tracing the deck lines, imagining them loaded up, though now it’s just a playground for the local marine life. Our top tip: aim for a slack tide. The visibility can be surprisingly good then, letting you take in the whole scene without fighting a current. It’s a great dive for those who appreciate wrecks with a story, and who don't mind a bit of depth.

Location
Northumberland & Northeast, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
53.582726, -3.689457
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
39m

Marine Protected Area: Liverpool Bay / Bae Lerpwl

Nearby Dive Sites in Northumberland & Northeast

Nearest Dive Centres to FB 289 AND 292 (PROBABLY)

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