PENRHOS (PROBABLY) - Northumberland & Northeast

The Penrhos, well, probably the Penrhos, holds a quiet charm for those who appreciate a wreck with a story, even if that story is a little blurry. Lying in just 12 metres, it’s a site we find ourselves drawn back to, particularly on those calm, bright days when the North Sea decides to be kind. We love poking around the remains of this old steamer; it feels like stepping back in time, imagining life aboard before it met its end in 1942. What you get here is a surprisingly intact hull section, the ribs of the ship standing proud from the seabed. The visibility can be a bit variable, but when it’s good, the light filters down, illuminating the rusty metalwork. Ballan wrasse dart in and out of the plating, and we've often spotted lobsters tucked into crevices, their antennae waving lazily. It’s not a site for massive pelagics, but for macro enthusiasts and those who enjoy a contemplative wreck dive, it’s a winner. We’d suggest a slow, deliberate exploration, keeping an eye out for nudibranchs on the encrusting sponges and anemones that have made this wreck their home. For us, it’s a perfect second dive or a relaxed morning dip when you just want to soak in some history.

Location

Northumberland & Northeast, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe

Coordinates

53.383934, -3.696667

Type

wreck

Maximum Depth

12m

Marine Protected Area: Great Orme