ARDGOUR II

Protected Area

Isle of May

Why dive here

With 112+ marine species recorded in the area - including dolphins, dwarf minke whales, humpback whales, ocean sunfish (mola mola) and orcas - ARDGOUR II offers some of Scottish East Coast & Borders's richest wreck diving.

Marine lifeDolphins, Dwarf Minke Whales, Humpback Whales, Ocean Sunfish (Mola Mola) and Orcas · 112+ species recorded

CharacterWreck dive · max 53m

StandoutRich in charismatic marine life

The Ardgour II, a fishing vessel sunk in a 1985 collision, offers a surprisingly engaging dive despite its modest 15.5m length. Dropping onto her at 53m, you’ll find her largely intact, lying upright, which we always appreciate for easy orientation. The wheelhouse is a particular highlight; swim through it and imagine the last moments before she went down. We love the way the North Sea has claimed her, covering every surface with the sort of colourful anemones and sponges that thrive in these colder, deeper waters. Look closely and you’ll spot squat lobsters tucked into crevices and ling often hovering in the gloom. Our favourite time to visit is on a slack tide, when the visibility often improves, allowing you to really appreciate the details of this working boat. It’s a dive for those comfortable with depth, offering a tangible piece of maritime history rather than vast open spaces.

Typical ARDGOUR II Dive Profile

Illustrative profile based on site depth and type. Actual dive profiles vary - always follow your dive computer and training.

Safety Notes

Maximum depth 53m exceeds recreational limits (40m). Technical diving certification and equipment required.

Wreck site - avoid penetration without wreck diving certification. Watch for sharp metal and entanglement hazards.

Always perform a 3-minute safety stop at 5m before surfacing.

Today06:3217:2010h 48m daylightGolden hour 16:29

ARDGOUR II Wreck History

Year Sunk

1985

Vessel Type

fishing vessel

Cause

collision

Tonnage

39 GRT

The Ardgour II was a small, 15-meter motor fishing vessel, typical of the hardworking boats that ply the often-challenging waters of the North Sea. Based on the Scottish East Coast, it was part of a close-knit fishing community, contributing to the region's proud maritime heritage.

Tragedy struck on May 14th, 1985, when the Ardgour II was involved in a collision at sea with another fishing vessel, the MFV Silver Star. The impact proved fatal for the smaller wooden boat, and it quickly foundered. Fortunately, due to the proximity of the other vessel, the crew were all rescued safely, avoiding a greater tragedy.

Lying at a depth of 53 meters, the Ardgour II is now strictly in the realm of technical diving. For those with the training and equipment to reach it, the wreck offers a unique experience. As a small, relatively intact vessel, it sits on the seabed as a solitary artificial reef in the deep, dark water. The dive is a challenging one, requiring careful planning and execution, but it rewards with a serene and untouched view of a wreck that few have the chance to see.