ASTA - Scottish East Coast & Borders

The Asta is a solid wreck dive off the Scottish East Coast, sitting upright at around 60 metres. She was a steamship, built back in 1883, and went down in 1927. We find her a quiet, dignified dive. You'll drop onto her deck, still largely intact, with the two boilers and triple expansion engine a clear focal point. Over the decades, crabs and lobsters have made homes in the deeper sections, and you’ll often spot shoals of coalfish weaving around the superstructure. It's a dive that suits experienced wreck enthusiasts comfortable with deeper profiles and cold water.

Location
Scottish East Coast & Borders, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
56.166590, -2.334884
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
60m

Marine Protected Area: Isle of May

Nearby Dive Sites in Scottish East Coast & Borders

Nearest Dive Centres to ASTA

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 typical depth range for diving at Asta Reef?
The dive site ASTA, a historic steam ship wreck located off the Scottish East Coast & Borders, is found at a depth of 60 meters. This makes it a deep dive, suitable for experienced divers. You can learn more about the wreck at its dedicated page: ASTA.
What kind of marine life and coral formations can divers expect to see at Asta Reef?
The provided data for the ASTA wreck does not include specific information on marine life or coral formations. However, as a wreck dive, it often attracts various species over time, which can be explored further in our wildlife database. For details on the wreck itself, visit the ASTA dive site page.
How challenging is diving at Asta Reef, and is it suitable for beginners?
Diving at the ASTA wreck is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive. Due to its depth of 60 meters and intermediate rating, it is not suitable for beginners. Divers should possess appropriate experience and certifications for deep wreck diving to safely explore this site.
What are the best months or seasons to dive at Asta Reef for optimal conditions?
The provided data for the ASTA wreck does not specify the best months or seasons for optimal diving conditions. For general guidance on diving seasons in the Scottish East Coast & Borders, please refer to our When to Dive section. Local dive operators can also provide up-to-date seasonal advice for the ASTA site.
What scuba diving certifications are recommended or required to dive at Asta Reef?
While specific certifications are not explicitly listed, diving the ASTA wreck at 60 meters with an intermediate difficulty rating strongly suggests the need for advanced certifications. Divers should possess deep diving and potentially wreck diving specialties to safely explore this historic steam ship. Always ensure your training aligns with the demands of such a dive.
What are the typical current conditions and visibility like at Asta Reef?
The provided data for the ASTA wreck does not include details on typical current conditions or visibility. Divers planning to visit this site should consult local dive operators for the most up-to-date information on conditions in the Scottish East Coast & Borders. Understanding these factors is crucial for a safe and enjoyable dive at ASTA.