BALLOCHBUIE (POSSIBLY) - Scottish East Coast & Borders

The Ballochbuie, or what we believe to be her, is a proper Scottish wreck dive, deep and moody, exactly what we look for when we’re up the East Coast. Dropping onto her at 51 metres, the visibility can be challenging, but that just adds to the atmosphere. She’s a decent size at 61 metres long, and we love the way her structure offers plenty to explore, even if the currents can be quite frisky here. You’ll find the triple-expansion engine a real highlight, a stark reminder of her working life before U-boat UC-76 found her in 1917. We’ve seen conger eels poking out of nooks and crannies, and dead man’s fingers coral growing in thick white clumps on her decks. It’s a site for experienced wreck divers comfortable with deep diving and potential low visibility, but the rewards are there. Don’t rush the dive, let your eyes adjust, and you’ll start to pick out more and more of her secrets.

Location
Scottish East Coast & Borders, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
56.227833, -2.235833
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
51m

Wreck History - BALLOCHBUIE (POSSIBLY)

Year Sunk
1917
Vessel Type
cargo ship
Cause
torpedo
Tonnage
921 GRT

This deep wreck, located off the Scottish East Coast, is believed to be the remains of the SS Ballochbuie, a 921 GRT cargo steamer sunk during World War I. The original Ballochbuie was built in Aberdeen in 1905 and served the Aberdeen Lime Co. Her story ended abruptly on April 20, 1917, when she was torpedoed and sunk by the German U-boat U-70, a common fate for merchant ships during the intense submarine campaigns of the war.

While the location and general characteristics of this wreck match the historical records for the Ballochbuie, its identity has not been definitively confirmed, hence the '(Possibly)' designation. This air of mystery adds a layer of intrigue to the dive. For the technical divers who venture down to 51 metres, the site offers more than just a wreck; it's an opportunity for exploration and potential discovery. Divers can explore the ship's remains, looking for identifying features like a ship's bell or maker's plate that could finally solve the puzzle of its name, all while observing the deep-water ecosystem that has claimed the wreck as its own.

Marine Protected Area: Isle of May

Nearby Dive Sites in Scottish East Coast & Borders

Nearest Dive Centres to BALLOCHBUIE (POSSIBLY)

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 diving depth at Ballochbuie (possibly)?
The typical diving depth at Ballochbuie (possibly) is 51 meters. This depth makes it suitable for divers with appropriate training and experience in deeper wreck diving. Always ensure you are within your certification limits for such depths.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at Ballochbuie (possibly)?
Divers visiting Ballochbuie (possibly) can explore the remains of a 61m x 9.5m steam ship vessel, which sank on April 20, 1917. This non-dangerous wreck features a boiler, triple expansion engine, and single shaft machinery, offering an interesting historical underwater landscape. While specific marine life is not detailed in the provided data, wrecks often become artificial reefs attracting various species over time; you can learn more about general marine life in our wildlife database.
How challenging is diving at Ballochbuie (possibly) for different experience levels?
Diving at Ballochbuie (possibly) is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive. This suggests it is suitable for certified divers who have gained some experience beyond entry-level dives, particularly those comfortable with deeper wreck environments. Divers should ensure they have the necessary skills and training for such conditions.
What is the best time of year to dive at Ballochbuie (possibly) for optimal conditions?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year to dive at Ballochbuie (possibly) for optimal conditions. For general guidance on diving in the Scottish East Coast & Borders, it is advisable to consult local dive centers or our when to dive section for broader advice.
What diving certifications are required or recommended for Ballochbuie (possibly)?
Given the 51-meter depth and intermediate difficulty rating for Ballochbuie (possibly), divers will likely need advanced certifications such as Deep Diver and Wreck Diver specialties, or equivalent technical diving qualifications. These certifications ensure divers have the necessary training and experience to safely explore this steam ship wreck. Always ensure your equipment is suitable for the planned dive.
What are the typical currents, visibility, and water temperatures at Ballochbuie (possibly)?
The provided data does not include specific information regarding typical currents, visibility, or water temperatures at Ballochbuie (possibly). Divers planning a trip to this Scottish East Coast & Borders wreck should seek current conditions from local dive operators or up-to-date weather forecasts.