ARCHANGEL - Scottish East Coast & Borders

The Archangel is a proper old girl, a steamship sunk back in 1941, and we think she’s a fantastic dive when conditions play ball. Lying in a relatively shallow 12 metres, she’s perfect for extended bottom times, allowing you to really soak in the history without constantly watching your gauge. We’ve always been drawn to her sheer scale – over 100 metres long – and even after all these years, you can still get a feel for her original shape, especially the impressive boilers. There’s a real sense of exploration here; you can potter around the deck, peer into cargo holds, and often spot lobsters tucked away in the darker corners. While it’s not a vibrant coral reef, the Archangel is teeming with local life. You’ll find shoals of coalfish darting through the superstructure, crabs scuttling over the plates, and often, some surprisingly large conger eels making their homes in the deeper recesses. It’s a dive for those who appreciate maritime history and the hardy marine life that thrives in these cooler waters. Our tip? Aim for a calm day with minimal swell. The visibility can be hit-or-miss, but when it’s good, the Archangel truly shines.

Location
Scottish East Coast & Borders, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
57.249794, -2.003868
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
12m

Wreck History - ARCHANGEL

Year Sunk
1941
Vessel Type
passenger ship
Cause
aircraft
Tonnage
2,488 GRT

Launched in 1910 as the SS St. Petersburg, this elegant steamship was built by the renowned John Brown & Company shipyard in Clydebank for the Great Eastern Railway's passenger ferry service between Harwich and the Hook of Holland. Following service in the First World War, she was renamed SS Archangel. With the outbreak of the Second World War, she was once again requisitioned for military duty, this time serving as a troopship, carrying soldiers to various postings around the UK.

Her long career came to a violent end on May 16, 1941. While sailing off the coast of Aberdeenshire near the village of St Cyrus, the Archangel was spotted and attacked by German bombers. The ship sustained direct hits and sank, though thankfully with no loss of life. Her sinking was a stark reminder of the long reach of the Luftwaffe, even along the Scottish coast.

Lying in just 12 metres of water, the Archangel is now a heavily broken but fascinating wreck site, accessible to divers of all levels. The ship was extensively salvaged for its valuable metals after the war, leaving a wide debris field. Her five massive boilers, however, remain the most prominent feature, standing proud from the seabed and providing a fantastic focal point for exploration and a popular habitat for local marine life.

Marine Protected Area: Foveran Links

Nearby Dive Sites in Scottish East Coast & Borders

Nearest Dive Centres to ARCHANGEL

Marine Life in Scottish East Coast & Borders

Home to 126 recorded species including 53 reef fish, 12 whales & dolphins, 10 seagrass & algae, 10 sharks & rays, 9 crabs & lobsters, 8 other.

Notable Species

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the maximum depth for diving at Archangel Cave?
The dive site known as ARCHANGEL is a fascinating steam ship wreck, not a cave. Divers can explore this historical vessel down to a maximum depth of 12 meters. For more details on this unique site, visit the ARCHANGEL dive site page.
What kind of marine life and underwater formations can divers expect to see at Archangel Cave?
The ARCHANGEL dive site is primarily a historical steam ship wreck, offering a unique underwater formation in itself. The provided data does not specify particular marine life or other natural underwater formations to expect at this site. For general information on marine species, you might consult our wildlife database.
How challenging is the Archangel Cave dive site for recreational divers?
The ARCHANGEL wreck site is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive, making it suitable for divers with some experience. It is also important to note its classification as a 'Dangerous wreck,' which implies potential hazards that require careful planning and appropriate training. Always consult local dive operators for the most current conditions and safety recommendations for this historic wreck.
What are the best months to dive at Archangel Cave for optimal conditions?
The provided data for the ARCHANGEL wreck does not specify the best months for optimal diving conditions. Factors like local weather, currents, and visibility can vary significantly throughout the year in the Scottish East Coast. We recommend checking our When to Dive resource or consulting local dive centers for up-to-date seasonal information regarding this dive site.
What diving certifications are recommended or required to dive at Archangel Cave?
While specific certification requirements are not detailed in the provided data, the ARCHANGEL wreck is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive and a 'Dangerous wreck.' This suggests that divers should possess experience beyond entry-level certifications, and potentially specialized training in wreck diving or advanced open water skills, to safely explore this site. Always confirm with local dive operators regarding any specific certifications or experience levels required for diving the ARCHANGEL.
What are the typical water conditions, like currents and visibility, at Archangel Cave?
The provided data for the ARCHANGEL wreck does not include specific details on typical water conditions such as currents or visibility. Conditions can vary greatly depending on weather, tides, and local factors along the Scottish East Coast. It is always best to consult local dive centers or recent dive reports for the most accurate and up-to-date information before planning your dive at the ARCHANGEL site.