OLINDA - Northumberland & Northeast

The Olinda is a site we’ve always had a soft spot for, despite its lack of depth. This isn’t a deep dive, sitting almost at 0m, so it’s perfect for a long, relaxed exploration. What you’ll find here is a classic steamship wreck, dating back to 1854. We love the history of it – she was on her way from Liverpool to Brazil, carrying a valuable cargo and 20 passengers when she went down. Today, the Olinda is more of a scattering of substantial hull plates and ribbing, rather than an intact vessel. It’s well-broken, but still very evocative. You’ll spend your time sifting through the remains, spotting the ghostly outline of what was once a grand ship. This is a brilliant spot for macro photography. Look closely among the plates and you’ll find squat lobsters tucked into crevices, nudibranchs grazing on the algae, and often, small inquisitive wrasse darting in and out of the metalwork. It’s also a good one for newer wreck divers, giving you the feel of a historical site without any significant depth or penetration. Head here on a calm day; even though it’s shallow, surge can make it less enjoyable.

Location
Northumberland & Northeast, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
53.416355, -4.510885
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
0m

Marine Protected Area: Cemlyn Bay

Nearby Dive Sites in Northumberland & Northeast

Nearest Dive Centres to OLINDA

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 at Olinda dive sites?
The Olinda dive site is listed with a depth of 0m, indicating it may be a very shallow wreck or even partially exposed. Divers exploring this historical steamship wreck should be prepared for extremely shallow conditions.
What marine life and underwater topography can divers expect to encounter at Olinda?
The Olinda dive site is a historical wreck, a steam ship that sank in 1854, and divers can expect to explore its hull or superstructure. While specific marine life is not detailed in the available information, wrecks often become artificial reefs, attracting various species over time. For general information on marine life, you can visit our wildlife database.
How difficult are the dives at Olinda, especially concerning currents and overall conditions?
Diving at the Olinda wreck is classified as intermediate difficulty. This suggests that while it may not be suitable for absolute beginners, experienced divers should find it manageable. Divers should always assess current conditions before entering the water.
When is the best time of year to dive Olinda for good visibility and calm seas?
Specific information regarding the best time of year for good visibility and calm seas at the Olinda dive site is not provided in the current data. For general guidance on seasonal diving conditions, you may find our When to Dive section helpful. Always check local weather and sea conditions before planning your dive.
What level of scuba certification is needed to dive at Olinda, particularly for its deeper or more advanced spots?
Given the Olinda dive site is classified as intermediate difficulty and listed at a depth of 0m, it would likely be accessible to certified open water divers. While no deeper or more advanced spots are indicated by the provided depth, an intermediate rating suggests some level of experience is beneficial. Always dive within your certification limits and comfort zone.
Are there strong currents at Olinda, and what are the usual water temperatures and visibility like?
The provided data for the Olinda dive site does not specify information about strong currents, usual water temperatures, or visibility. Divers should consult local dive operators or resources for up-to-date conditions before planning their trip. Always be prepared for varying conditions, and consider bringing appropriate equipment.