MALAGUENA
Protected Area
West of Copeland
Why dive here
With 118+ marine species recorded in the area - including dolphins, dwarf minke whales, humpback whales, ocean sunfish (mola mola) and orcas - MALAGUENA offers some of Northumberland & Northeast's richest wreck diving.
Let's be honest, Northumberland wreck diving often means fishing boats, and the Malaguena is exactly that: a decommissioned trawler hull on its way to the scrap yard when it decided to call it quits. But don't let the humble backstory fool you. This wreck, lying at a neat 31 metres, has become a proper little haven. We love how it’s settled upright, offering an almost complete profile that’s surprisingly intact for something that was essentially just a shell. Drop down and you'll quickly make out the distinct bow and stern, with much of the midships opened up, making for some easy swim-throughs if you're comfortable with overhead environments. The exposed metalwork acts like a huge apartment block for crustaceans; you'll spot edible crabs tucked into every nook and cranny, and if you bring a good torch, the colours of the anemones are fantastic. Our favourite part? The sheer amount of fish life that congregates around the structure. We’ve seen good-sized cod here, gliding slowly through the shadows, and ling often peer out from under the deeper sections. It’s a great dive for anyone looking for a solid wreck experience without extreme depths, offering plenty to explore and some really satisfying encounters with local marine life. Just be mindful of the often-present current; slack water is definitely your friend here.
Typical MALAGUENA Dive Profile
Illustrative profile based on site depth and type. Actual dive profiles vary - always follow your dive computer and training.
Safety Notes
Deep dive (31m) - monitor air consumption closely. Advanced certification recommended.
Wreck site - avoid penetration without wreck diving certification. Watch for sharp metal and entanglement hazards.
Always perform a 3-minute safety stop at 5m before surfacing.
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