GWYNFAEN - Northumberland & Northeast

The *Gwynfaen* is one of our picks for a proper Northumberland wreck dive. She’s not huge, just 42 metres long, an iron steamer that went down in 1904. What we love about her is how intact she is for a wreck of her age in these waters. You drop down, and suddenly the bow looms out of the gloom, still quite proud, often silhouetted against the lighter surface if you time it right. We usually find the *Gwynfaen* sitting upright, and that’s a big part of her charm. The stern is a bit more broken up, but the midships, where the boiler stands, offers some great swim-throughs. Keep an eye out for the resident crabs that scuttle through the nooks and crannies – we’ve seen some hefty edible crabs here. Visibility can be a typical North Sea lottery, anything from a few metres to a decent 10, so pick your day. Slack water is key for a relaxed exploration, otherwise, you'll be battling a fair push. It's a great site for divers who appreciate history and don’t mind a bit of a current.

Location
Northumberland & Northeast, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
52.948517, -4.590900
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
19m

Marine Protected Area: Porth Dinllaen I Borth Pistyll

Nearby Dive Sites in Northumberland & Northeast

Nearest Dive Centres to GWYNFAEN

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 of the Gwynfaen shipwreck dive site?
The maximum depth of the Gwynfaen shipwreck dive site is 19 meters. This makes it an accessible wreck for divers with appropriate training and experience. It's a great depth for extended bottom times while exploring.
What kind of marine life and wreck features can divers expect to see at the Gwynfaen shipwreck?
Divers exploring the Gwynfaen shipwreck can expect to encounter the remains of an iron-built steam ship vessel, measuring 42 meters long by 6 meters wide. Key features include its single boiler, compound expansion engine, and single shaft, offering a fascinating glimpse into early 20th-century maritime engineering. While specific marine life details are not provided, wrecks often become artificial reefs attracting various local species.
How challenging is diving the Gwynfaen shipwreck, and is it suitable for beginner divers?
Diving the Gwynfaen shipwreck is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive. Due to its "Dangerous wreck" classification and intermediate rating, it is not typically suitable for beginner divers. Divers should possess the necessary experience and certifications for wreck diving to safely explore this site.
What are the best times of year to dive the Gwynfaen shipwreck for optimal conditions and visibility?
The provided data does not specify the best times of year for optimal conditions and visibility at the Gwynfaen shipwreck. For general guidance on seasonal diving conditions in the Northumberland & Northeast region, we recommend consulting our When to Dive resource. Always check local dive reports before planning your trip.
What scuba diving certifications are required or recommended to dive the Gwynfaen wreck?
Given that the Gwynfaen wreck is classified as an intermediate and "Dangerous wreck" dive, a basic open water certification is likely insufficient. Divers should possess advanced certifications, such as an Advanced Open Water Diver, and ideally a specialized Wreck Diver certification, to safely and responsibly explore this site. These certifications ensure you have the skills to navigate wreck environments.
What are the typical current conditions and visibility like when diving the Gwynfaen shipwreck?
The provided data for the Gwynfaen shipwreck does not include specific details regarding typical current conditions or visibility. These factors can vary greatly depending on local weather and tidal patterns. It is always advisable to consult local dive operators or recent dive reports for the most up-to-date information on conditions before planning your dive.