SONIA - Northumberland & Northeast

The Sonia offers a decent wreck dive for those comfortable with deeper UK waters. Resting at 55m, this steamship, originally the Goldfinch, went down in 1930 and now hosts a variety of interesting cold-water life. We often find wolfish poking out from nooks and crannies, and dead man's fingers cover much of the structure. The single boiler is a prominent feature, and you can still make out the lines of the 36-metre vessel, giving a good sense of its former life. It’s a solid pick for experienced divers looking to log some deeper bottom time on a historical piece.

Location
Northumberland & Northeast, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
53.560204, -4.506375
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
55m

Marine Protected Area: Llanbadrig - Dinas Gynfor

Nearby Dive Sites in Northumberland & Northeast

Nearest Dive Centres to SONIA

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 is the maximum depth for diving at Soneva Reef?
The provided data is for the dive site SONIA, not Soneva Reef. At the SONIA wreck, divers can explore a maximum depth of 55 meters. This makes it a deep dive requiring appropriate training and experience.
What kind of marine life and coral can divers expect to see at Soneva Reef?
The available data for the SONIA wreck in Northumberland & Northeast does not specify details about marine life or coral. As a wreck site, it often attracts various fish species and invertebrates seeking shelter. For general information on marine life, you can visit our wildlife database.
Is Soneva Reef considered a difficult dive site for beginners?
Based on the provided information for the SONIA wreck, it is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive site. This suggests it may not be suitable for absolute beginners and typically requires some prior diving experience. Divers should ensure they have the necessary skills and comfort level for such conditions.
When is the best time of year to dive at Soneva Reef?
The provided data for the SONIA wreck does not include specific information regarding the best time of year to dive. Generally, diving in the United Kingdom can be influenced by weather and sea conditions. For more general guidance on seasonal diving, please refer to our When to Dive section.
What dive certifications are required to explore Soneva Reef?
To explore the SONIA wreck, which has a maximum depth of 55 meters and is rated as intermediate difficulty, divers would typically need advanced or technical diving certifications. This depth often requires certifications such as PADI Deep Diver, Tec 50, or equivalent. Always ensure your certification level matches the dive profile.
Are there strong currents or challenging water conditions at Soneva Reef?
While the provided data for the SONIA wreck does not explicitly detail strong currents or challenging water conditions, its classification as an intermediate difficulty dive site suggests that divers should be prepared for varying conditions. It's always advisable to check local dive reports and conditions before planning your dive. For information on equipment that can help with challenging conditions, visit our guide.