MAARTEN CORNELIS

Protected Area

Holyhead Mountain

Why dive here

With 118+ marine species recorded in the area - including dolphins, dwarf minke whales, humpback whales, ocean sunfish (mola mola) and orcas - MAARTEN CORNELIS offers some of Northumberland & Northeast's richest wreck diving.

Marine lifeDolphins, Dwarf Minke Whales, Humpback Whales, Ocean Sunfish (Mola Mola) and Orcas · 118+ species recorded

CharacterWreck dive · max 41m

StandoutRich in charismatic marine life

The Maarten Cornelis is a proper North Sea challenge, and frankly, we love it. Forget the pretty colours of the tropics; this is raw, compelling wreck diving. Dropping onto her at 41 metres, you’re enveloped by the cold, green embrace of the North Sea. The fishing trawler, sunk in ‘71, sits upright and largely intact, a testament to her sturdy build even after striking rocks off Anglesey. What makes her special? The sheer sense of history, for one. You can still make out the wheelhouse, the hold, even the winches, now heavily encrusted. It’s a dark dive, so good lights are non-negotiable. We often spot conger eels peering from every crevice, and the resident crabs are enormous, scuttling across the deck plates. Keep an eye out for the odd wolf fish too, hugging the deeper sections. This isn't a beginner's wreck; strong currents can sweep through, and that depth demands confident, experienced divers. But if you’re up for it, the Maarten Cornelis delivers a truly immersive experience. It’s gritty, real, and utterly captivating.