Wreck of Factor

Protected Area

Isle of Whithorn Bay

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 Factor 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 Wreck of Factor, often just called "The Factor" by local divers, is one of those North Sea wrecks that just *works*. We love it because it’s not just a pile of plates; it feels like a proper ship, even after all these years. You’re descending into that characteristic Northumberland green, and then suddenly, the bow looms out of the gloom, usually swarming with juvenile coalfish. The Factor sits upright and relatively intact, making it ideal for penetration if you're qualified and the conditions are calm. We’ve spent hours exploring the cargo holds, sometimes finding remnants of what she carried. Our favourite part is the engine room, often sheltering conger eels that stare out from dark corners, or lobsters scuttling away as your torch beam finds them. It’s a fantastic dive for those who enjoy a bit of history and don't mind a chillier dip. Visibility can vary wildly, from a mere few metres to a surprising 15, so pick your weather window carefully – slack water is key here. Dive it on a sunny day if you can, when the light penetrates just enough to pick out the detail in the superstructure.