Normandy Coast - Northumberland & Northeast

The Normandy Coast, lying off the Northumberland coast, is one of those wrecks that really sticks with you. She's a big old steamship, torpedoed back in 1945, and sits upright in a hefty 44 metres of water. We love the sheer scale of her down there. Dropping onto the bridge area, you can feel the history, imagining the chaos of her final moments. The visibility can be a bit hit-or-miss, typical for the Northeast, but on a good day, the wreck reveals so much. We often find the stern to be our favourite section; the prop is still there, a massive, silent sentinel. Look closely for the wolfish lurking in the gloom of the holds – they seem to favour the deeper, darker sections. Conger eels are always a given, coiled within the engine room, and you’ll inevitably spook a decent-sized cod as you poke around. It's a proper British wreck dive, rugged and atmospheric, best suited for experienced divers comfortable with deeper, colder water and variable conditions. We'd suggest aiming for slack water, otherwise, that current can really make for a taxing dive.

Location
Northumberland & Northeast, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
53.240260, -4.818897
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
44m

Marine Protected Area: Holyhead Mountain

Nearby Dive Sites in Northumberland & Northeast

Nearest Dive Centres to Normandy Coast

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 scuba diving on the D-Day wrecks along the Normandy Coast?
Based on the provided data for the Normandy Coast dive site, a steam ship vessel located in Northumberland & Northeast, United Kingdom, the typical depth for this wreck is 44 meters. This site, sunk in 1945, offers an intermediate diving experience. Please note that while named 'Normandy Coast', this specific wreck is situated off the coast of Northumberland & Northeast, UK, and is not a D-Day wreck.
What kind of marine life and historical artifacts can divers expect to see when exploring the Normandy Coast dive sites?
When exploring the Normandy Coast dive site, divers can expect to encounter the historical remains of a significant steam ship vessel. This wreck, built in 1916 and sunk in 1945, measures 79.2m x 11.6m and features a triple expansion engine, offering a unique historical artifact. The provided data does not detail specific marine life at this site.
How challenging are the dive conditions, including currents and visibility, when scuba diving the Normandy Coast?
Diving the Normandy Coast wreck is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive. This suggests that divers should have experience beyond basic certification to safely explore the site. The provided data does not offer specific details regarding currents or typical visibility conditions.
What is the best time of year to go scuba diving in Normandy for optimal weather and water conditions?
The provided data for the Normandy Coast dive site does not specify the best time of year for optimal weather and water conditions. For general guidance on seasonal diving, you may wish to consult our When to Dive section. Always check local conditions before planning your dive.
What scuba diving certifications are required or recommended for diving the D-Day wrecks and other sites off the Normandy Coast?
For the Normandy Coast dive site, which is classified as intermediate difficulty, a certification beyond entry-level, such as Advanced Open Water Diver or equivalent, is generally recommended. This level of training helps divers manage the depth of 44 meters and potential challenges. Always ensure your certification matches the dive's demands and consider specialized wreck diving training for such sites.
Are there any specific hazards or unique environmental conditions divers should be aware of when planning a dive along the Normandy Coast?
The Normandy Coast wreck is classified as a non-dangerous wreck, which is an important safety consideration. However, divers should be aware of its depth at 44 meters, which requires appropriate training and experience. As a site where nineteen men were lost when it was torpedoed and sunk in 1945, it should also be approached with respect as a historical grave.