ARDGOUR II - Scottish East Coast & Borders

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.

Location
Scottish East Coast & Borders, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
56.191593, -2.193237
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
53m

Wreck History - ARDGOUR II

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.

Marine Protected Area: Isle of May

Nearby Dive Sites in Scottish East Coast & Borders

Nearest Dive Centres to ARDGOUR II

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