HMS RECEPTO - Northumberland & Northeast

The HMS Recepto is our go-to for a proper North Sea wreck dive without the need for deep technical skills. Sitting upright at 15m, she’s a sturdy trawler, sunk in 1917, and has become a true artificial reef. We love poking around her bow, often finding lobsters tucked into the nooks and crannies. The stern section is less intact, but the triple-expansion engine is a fantastic sight, still standing proud and draped in anemones. Visibility here can swing, but on a good day, the Recepto has a real presence, a dark shape emerging from the green. We’ve had dives here where schools of pollock circle the superstructure, their silver scales flashing, and big conger eels sometimes peer out from beneath collapsed plating. It’s a site that feels genuinely historical, a tangible piece of maritime past, but also vibrant with current life. Our tip: aim for a slack tide dive to properly enjoy exploring the layout. It's an ideal wreck for those newer to wreck diving, offering plenty to see without any serious overhead environments.

Location
Northumberland & Northeast, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
54.677357, -1.139965
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
15m

Marine Protected Area: Teesmouth and Cleveland Coast

Nearby Dive Sites in Northumberland & Northeast

Nearest Dive Centres to HMS RECEPTO

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 HMS RECEPTO dive site?
The HMS RECEPTO dive site has a maximum depth of 15 meters. This makes it an accessible wreck for divers with appropriate training and experience.
What kind of marine life and wreck features can divers expect to see on the HMS RECEPTO?
Divers exploring the HMS RECEPTO can expect to encounter the remains of a 37.6m x 6.6m trawler vessel, which sank in 1917. Key features include its single boiler, triple expansion engine, and other machinery. While specific marine life is not detailed in the provided information, wrecks often become artificial reefs, attracting various species over time.
What is the difficulty level for diving the HMS RECEPTO, and is it suitable for recreational divers?
The HMS RECEPTO is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive. This means it is suitable for recreational divers who have gained some experience beyond entry-level certifications and are comfortable with wreck diving fundamentals.
What are the best months or seasons to dive the HMS RECEPTO for optimal conditions?
The provided data does not specify the best months or seasons for diving the HMS RECEPTO for optimal conditions. For general guidance on planning your dives, you might consult DivePlnr's When to Dive section.
What diving certifications are required to dive the HMS RECEPTO wreck?
Given the HMS RECEPTO is an intermediate difficulty wreck dive, divers should possess at least an Advanced Open Water certification or equivalent, along with specialized wreck diving training. This ensures you have the necessary skills and experience to safely explore this site.
What are the typical currents and visibility conditions at the HMS RECEPTO dive site?
The provided data does not include specific information regarding the typical currents or visibility conditions at the HMS RECEPTO dive site. Divers should always check local conditions and forecasts before planning their dive.