HERMINE - Northumberland & Northeast

The Hermine, a 19th-century sailing vessel, went down in 1890 after striking rocks. What's left of her lies broken up, scattered across the seabed, but that’s precisely what we find so captivating. You’re not getting a pristine, intact wreck here, and that’s fine by us. Instead, it’s a site to really explore, where the sea has had over a century to reclaim its own. We love nosing around the exposed ribs and plates. The hull is largely gone, but the jumble of wreckage provides fantastic shelter, drawing in a surprising amount of life. Crabs scuttle between the broken timbers, and we often spot decent-sized conger eels tucked into the dark recesses. Visibility can be a bit of a lottery, as it often is in the Northeast, but on a good day, with a bit of sunlight filtering down, the ironwork takes on a moody, atmospheric glow. It’s a dive that rewards patience and a keen eye, perfect for those who enjoy the history as much as the marine life.

Location
Northumberland & Northeast, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
53.262760, -4.620034
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
0m

Marine Protected Area: Beddmanarch-Cymyran

Nearby Dive Sites in Northumberland & Northeast

Nearest Dive Centres to HERMINE

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 Hermine dive site?
The Hermine dive site has a listed depth of 0m. This indicates that the wreck of this 48.5m x 8.2m sailing vessel is located at or very near the surface, making it an extremely shallow dive. Divers should be aware of its exact position and potential exposure to surface conditions.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at Hermine?
At the Hermine dive site, divers can expect to explore the remains of a historic sailing vessel, built in 1865 and sunk on June 16, 1890. This 48.5m x 8.2m wreck is classified as showing a portion of its hull or superstructure, offering an interesting artificial reef structure. While specific marine life is not detailed, wrecks in the United Kingdom often attract local fish species and invertebrates.
How challenging is diving at Hermine, and is it suitable for beginner divers?
Diving at the Hermine site is classified as intermediate difficulty. This suggests that while it might not be suitable for absolute beginner divers, those with some experience and appropriate training can enjoy exploring this historic wreck. Divers should possess the necessary skills to handle potential conditions at an intermediate site.
What is the best time of year to dive at Hermine for optimal conditions?
The provided data for the Hermine dive site does not specify the best time of year for optimal diving conditions. For general guidance on diving in Northumberland & Northeast, divers may wish to consult broader regional information or when-to-dive resources to understand seasonal variations.
What diving certifications are required to dive at the Hermine site?
Given that the Hermine dive site is rated as intermediate difficulty, divers should ideally possess more than just an entry-level certification. While specific certifications are not listed, an Advanced Open Water Diver certification or a Wreck Diver specialty would be highly recommended to safely and effectively explore this historical wreck. Always dive within your training and experience limits.
What are the typical current conditions and visibility like at Hermine?
The available data for the Hermine dive site does not provide specific details regarding typical current conditions or visibility. Divers planning to visit this wreck in Northumberland & Northeast should consult local dive operators or recent dive reports for up-to-date information on these environmental factors.