FB 72 (POSSIBLY) - Northumberland & Northeast

The FB 72, often just called "The Barge," sits upright at 40 metres, a substantial wreck dumped off the Northumberland coast. It’s a purposeful dive, and we reckon it’s one of the best deeper wrecks around here for sheer solidity. Dropping down, the outline of the barge slowly resolves from the murk, a long, flat deck that feels vast once you’re on it. You’re not getting the dramatic broken bow of a cargo ship here; instead, it's a wonderfully intact structure, offering plenty to poke around without being overly complex. We love finning along the deck, peeking into the open holds where conger eels often lurk, coiled amongst the beams. Deadman’s fingers bloom in thick clusters, creating this surprisingly colourful landscape against the rust. It's a site that really comes alive with a good torch beam, illuminating wolf fish tucked into crevices and ling drifting in the gentle current. This isn't a beginner's dive, naturally, given the depth, but for experienced cold-water wreckies, it’s a brilliant way to spend an hour, exploring a piece of industrial history that’s become a vibrant artificial reef.

Location

Northumberland & Northeast, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe

Coordinates

53.584118, -3.671272

Type

wreck

Maximum Depth

40m

Marine Protected Area: Liverpool Bay / Bae Lerpwl