LESTRIS - Northumberland & Northeast

The Lestris, an iron steamship sunk back in 1891, is one of our favourite wreck dives off the Northumberland coast. Lying in a manageable 17 metres, it’s a site that rewards repeat visits, especially when the light cuts through the surface. We love how much of the wreck is still recognisable, despite the years. You can often trace the line of the bow, and the stern section holds some fantastic nooks and crannies. Visibility here can swing from a murky five metres to a surprisingly clear fifteen, so picking your day is key. We always aim for a neap tide, right on slack water, to get the best out of it. Descending, you’ll start to pick out the skeletal ribs of the hull, now completely encrusted with plumose anemones – their white polyps swaying gently in the subtle current. We often find wolf fish tucked away in crevices, their toothy grins a welcome sight, and the holds are usually home to a respectable congregation of cod and pollock. Keep an eye out for velvet swimming crabs too, scuttling amongst the growth. It’s a proper dive into history, and a good reminder of the raw power of the sea.

Location
Northumberland & Northeast, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
53.418870, -3.014403
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
17m

Marine Protected Area: Mersey Narrows

Nearby Dive Sites in Northumberland & Northeast

Nearest Dive Centres to LESTRIS

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 are the typical depths for diving at LESTRIS, including its shipwrecks and reef formations?
The LESTRIS wreck site, a fascinating steam ship sunk in 1891, offers diving at a typical depth of 17 meters. Divers can explore this historical vessel, built of iron in 1872. There are no specific reef formations mentioned for this particular dive site, focusing solely on the LESTRIS wreck.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see when diving at LESTRIS (Lefteris Reef)?
When diving at LESTRIS, divers can expect to explore the impressive underwater features of a 67.1m x 9.1m iron steam ship vessel, originally built in 1872 and sunk in 1891. The wreck includes a boiler and a compound expansion engine, offering a fascinating glimpse into maritime history. While specific marine life is not detailed in the available data for this site, wrecks often become artificial reefs, attracting various species which you can learn more about in our wildlife database.
What is the difficulty level for diving at LESTRIS, and is it suitable for beginner or advanced divers?
The difficulty level for diving at LESTRIS is classified as intermediate, making it suitable for divers who have some experience beyond basic open water certification. This site is also classified as a "Dangerous wreck," indicating that divers should possess appropriate training and experience for navigating such environments safely.
What is the best time of year to dive at LESTRIS (Lefteris Reef) for optimal visibility and conditions?
The provided data for the LESTRIS dive site does not specify the best time of year for optimal visibility and conditions. To plan your trip, we recommend checking local dive operators for current conditions or consulting our general When to Dive guide for the Northumberland & Northeast region.
What scuba diving certifications are required to dive at LESTRIS, especially for exploring the deeper wreck sites?
While specific certifications are not explicitly listed for the LESTRIS wreck, its 17-meter depth and "intermediate" difficulty suggest that an Advanced Open Water certification or equivalent is generally recommended. Given its classification as a "Dangerous wreck," specialized wreck diving training would be highly beneficial for safe and thorough exploration of the site. You can find more information on necessary equipment and training on DivePlnr.
What are the typical currents and water conditions like at LESTRIS (Lefteris Reef)?
The provided data for the LESTRIS dive site does not include specific information regarding typical currents or water conditions. For the most accurate and up-to-date details on currents and conditions, it is always best to consult local dive centers in the Northumberland & Northeast area before planning your dive.