wreck

Log This Dive

JOHN BULL

The John Bull, off the Northumberland coast, is one of those dives that sticks with you, even if it’s not the deepest. We’re talking shallow, often just a metre or two at high tide, so it’s perfect for a long, slow exploration. This isn't a dive you rush. She went down in 1885, a paddle tug, and now sits broken but fascinating on the seabed, about 1200 yards southwest of Gladstone Old Dock's entrance. What we love about the John Bull is the sheer amount of detail still visible for such an old wreck. You can trace parts of her hull, peer into collapsed sections, and really get a sense of her shape, despite the centuries of shifting sand and sea. Visibility can be hit or miss, typical for the Northeast, but when it’s good, the light plays beautifully through the shallow water, illuminating the rust-coloured plates. Our favourite spots are where the metalwork creates little overhangs and crevices. These are absolutely packed with crabs – velvet swimmers are everywhere – and often a few shy lobsters peeking out. You’ll also find plenty of blennies darting between the barnacle-encrusted metal. It’s a photographer's dream on a sunny day, especially if you’re into macro. Best to time your dive for slack water, just to make life easier with the tide.