wreck

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WESTBURN

The Westburn is a proper diver's wreck, lying deep at 34 metres. It went down in '75, a fishing vessel that just gave up the ghost after a rope fouled its propeller and opened the stern gland. What a way to go. Today, it sits upright, almost intact, and offers a seriously atmospheric dive. We love dropping onto her deck, still fairly flat, and exploring the holds. They’re open, inviting you in, but remember your penetration training – it’s a tight squeeze in some spots, especially down in the engine room, which is our favourite part. You can almost feel the chill of that December day it sank. Around the mast and superstructure, you'll find plenty of inquisitive ballan wrasse and often a few ling poking their heads out from shadowy nooks. The visibility can be hit-or-miss, typical for the Northeast, but when it’s good, it’s a truly special dive. Bring a good torch; the light doesn't penetrate far down here, even on a bright day. This isn't a dive for beginners, but if you're comfortable with depth and a bit of current, the Westburn is a rewarding plunge into maritime history.