Marquess of Bute (POSSIBLY) - Northumberland & Northeast

Now, the Marquess of Bute. We’re putting a ‘possibly’ next to this one because, let’s be honest, the North Sea has a habit of claiming ships and holding onto their secrets. What we think we’ve found, though, is a cracker. Lying in 35 metres, this iron steamer, originally named Charles then William Hinde before Marquess of Bute, went down in 1910. It’s a proper historical dive, a sturdy iron hull built in Belfast, still largely intact despite the North Sea’s best efforts. We love tracing the deck plates, imagining the cargo, and poking around the stern where the single shaft would have been. The bow, in particular, is a favourite; it’s often draped in plumose anemones, their white tentacles swaying like ghostly flags in the current. Look for the massive ballan wrasse that patrol the deeper sections, their colours muted by the depth, and keep an eye out for inquisitive conger eels peeking from beneath twisted plates. Visibility can be a bit hit-and-miss up here, but on a good day, the dark iron against the green water, with light filtering down, is quite atmospheric. We’d suggest a slack water dive for this one; currents can pick up quickly, turning a relaxed exploration into a bit of a workout. It’s definitely one for experienced wreck divers who appreciate a bit of maritime history and aren't afraid of a bit of gloom.

Location

Northumberland & Northeast, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe

Coordinates

53.357750, -4.687817

Type

wreck

Maximum Depth

35m

Marine Protected Area: Holyhead Mountain