GIRL MAY
Protected Area
West of Copeland
Why dive here
With 118+ marine species recorded in the area - including dolphins, dwarf minke whales, humpback whales, ocean sunfish (mola mola) and orcas - GIRL MAY offers some of Northumberland & Northeast's richest wreck diving.
The Girl May, now that’s a wreck with some character, and one we always enjoy getting back to. She’s a wooden steamship, sitting upright in about 31 metres, and even after all these years, you can still feel the history of her. When you drop down, the visibility in Northumberland can be a bit of a lottery, but even on an average day, the ghostly outline of her bow emerging from the gloom is quite something. We love finning around the stern, where the old propeller often stands proud, surrounded by schooling bib and pollack that dart into the shadows as you approach. The Girl May is thoroughly encrusted with plumose anemones, their frilly white tentacles swaying gently in the subtle currents, making the whole wreck feel alive. If you bring a torch, you can peer into the holds, where we’ve often spotted conger eels tucked away, their heads poking out from the gaps in the timber. It’s a site that really rewards slow exploration, taking your time to appreciate the structure and the way the marine life has completely reclaimed it. Ideal for divers who appreciate a bit of maritime history and don't mind a slightly chillier dive.
Typical GIRL MAY Dive Profile
Illustrative profile based on site depth and type. Actual dive profiles vary - always follow your dive computer and training.
Safety Notes
Deep dive (31m) - monitor air consumption closely. Advanced certification recommended.
Wreck site - avoid penetration without wreck diving certification. Watch for sharp metal and entanglement hazards.
Always perform a 3-minute safety stop at 5m before surfacing.
Reviews for GIRL MAY
Conditions
Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for GIRL MAY
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