HIBERNIAN - Northumberland & Northeast

The Hibernian, she’s a proper character, sitting upright at 38 metres. We love that she’s a compact wreck, easy to get your head around in one dive, but still packed with detail. You’ll find her bow pointing north, the stern to the south, with two boilers and a sizeable engine taking centre stage. We always make a point of peering into the open holds, where crabs scuttle and curious wrasse dart in and out of the shadows. The atmosphere down there is something else – the deep green light, the gentle sway of dead man's fingers coating the metalwork. Look closely for the smaller stuff: tiny gobies tucked into crevices, nudibranchs slowly making their way across the plates. Because she’s relatively intact, the structure itself provides plenty of overheads and interesting swim-throughs for the more experienced. It’s a dive that rewards a slow approach, letting your eyes adjust to the subtle changes in light and texture. We’d suggest saving this one for a calm day with good visibility, as the deeper depth makes anything less a bit of a scramble.

Location
Northumberland & Northeast, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
53.952126, -4.008462
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
38m

Marine Protected Area: West of Copeland

Nearby Dive Sites in Northumberland & Northeast

Nearest Dive Centres to HIBERNIAN

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 HIBERNIAN dive site, and what are the typical depths for exploring the wreck?
The HIBERNIAN dive site has a maximum depth of 38 meters. Divers exploring this fascinating wreck, a steam ship vessel, will typically find themselves at this depth, making it a deep dive experience. This depth is consistent for exploring the entirety of the wreck.
What kind of marine life and wreck features can divers expect to see on the HIBERNIAN shipwreck?
Divers exploring the HIBERNIAN can expect to encounter the remains of a 44.2m x 7m steam ship vessel, built in 1875 and sunk in 1894 following a collision. Key features include its compound engines by Kemp & Hume, Glasgow, and the overall structure of this 204 net ton wreck. While specific marine life isn't detailed, wrecks typically attract a variety of local marine species that colonize the structure over time.
How challenging is diving the HIBERNIAN wreck, especially for less experienced divers?
Diving the HIBERNIAN wreck is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive. This means it presents certain challenges that may not be suitable for less experienced divers or those without proper training and comfort in deeper wreck environments. Divers should possess the necessary skills and experience for a safe and enjoyable exploration of this site.
When is the best time of year to dive the HIBERNIAN for optimal conditions and visibility?
Information regarding the best time of year for optimal conditions and visibility at the HIBERNIAN dive site is not specifically provided in our current data. For general guidance on seasonal diving conditions in the Northumberland & Northeast region, please consult our When to Dive resource or local dive operators.
What diving certifications or special permissions are needed to dive the HIBERNIAN shipwreck?
Given the HIBERNIAN's intermediate difficulty and maximum depth of 38 meters, divers will typically need at least an Advanced Open Water certification or equivalent, along with specialized training for wreck diving. While it is classified as a non-dangerous wreck, proper certification and experience are crucial for safely exploring such depths and environments. Always check with local dive operators for any specific permissions or additional requirements.
What are the typical current conditions and visibility like at the HIBERNIAN dive site?
Details regarding the typical current conditions and visibility at the HIBERNIAN dive site are not available in the provided data. Divers planning to visit this wreck in Northumberland & Northeast should consult with local dive centers for the most up-to-date information on site conditions before planning their dive.