Wreck of Pilot - Northumberland & Northeast

We love a wreck that tells a story, and the Pilot certainly does. This isn’t a pristine, intact ship, but rather a proper working wreck, broken up and scattered, creating an incredible habitat. Drop down onto the seabed and you'll find the remains of this old steamer, a jumble of twisted metal, boilers, and plates, all blanketed in anemones and dead man's fingers. Our favourite part is navigating the bigger sections, peering into the gloom where huge conger eels often lurk, or spotting the lobsters tucked into every available crevice. It’s a dive that rewards slow exploration, picking through the debris, rather than a quick swim-through. It’s best on a slack tide, otherwise, the current can really rip through, making the dive less enjoyable. Visibility can be hit or miss, as with much of the North Sea, but when it’s good, the light penetrating the anemone-covered steel is quite something. This site really suits divers who appreciate historical wrecks and enjoy spending time observing the smaller residents. Expect a proper UK wreck dive – a bit of a current, often a bit dark, but always full of life and a real sense of history.

Location

Northumberland & Northeast, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe

Coordinates

54.778180, -4.096550

Type

wreck

Marine Protected Area: Shoulder o' Craig