Wreck of Elbe

Protected Area

Abbey Burn Foot to Balcary Point

Why dive here

With 118+ marine species recorded in the area - including dolphins, dwarf minke whales, humpback whales, ocean sunfish (mola mola) and orcas - Wreck of Elbe offers some of Northumberland & Northeast's richest wreck diving.

Marine lifeDolphins, Dwarf Minke Whales, Humpback Whales, Ocean Sunfish (Mola Mola) and Orcas · 118+ species recorded

CharacterWreck dive

StandoutRich in charismatic marine life

The Elbe, resting off the Northumberland coast, is one of those wrecks that just gets under your skin. We often find ourselves drawn back to her, especially on a day with decent vis. Dropping down, you start to make out the distinct shape of a steam trawler, quite an elegant wreck really, despite the years she’s spent on the seabed. She lies well broken but the bow section is still very identifiable, even the anchor chain leading off into the gloom. Our favourite part is exploring the engine room, which is still quite accessible. You can poke around, imagining the crew working there before she went down. Conger eels are regulars, often peeking out from behind a bulkhead, and the deck plating is thick with colourful jewel anemones. We’d suggest timing your dive for slack water; the currents here can really rip and you’ll want to take your time soaking it all in. It's a proper British wreck dive, moody and full of history, perfect for experienced divers who appreciate a bit of atmosphere.