BALTANGLIA - Scottish East Coast & Borders

The Baltanglia, a casualty of a January storm in 1940, lies upright and largely intact at 59 metres – a proper deep wreck for those with the training. We’ve always been drawn to wrecks that tell a story, and the Baltanglia certainly does. Descending onto her deck, the scale of this 77-metre steamer becomes apparent. The bridge structure is still there, and you can peer into what was once the wheelhouse, though the cold Scottish waters have long since claimed any wooden fittings. Our favourite part is exploring the stern; the massive propeller is still in place, often covered in dense clusters of plumose anemones, their white tentacles swaying with the current. Keep an eye out for conger eels lurking in the deeper holds, and we’ve spotted wolf fish patrolling the outer edges of the wreck on several occasions. Visibility here can be excellent on a good day, but it’s still the North Sea, so be prepared for a bit of gloom. It’s a serious dive, one for experienced technical divers comfortable with deco, but the reward is a genuinely impressive piece of history colonised by robust marine life.

Location
Scottish East Coast & Borders, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
55.548750, -1.470133
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
59m

Wreck History - BALTANGLIA

Year Sunk
1940
Vessel Type
cargo ship
Cause
torpedo
Tonnage
1,523 GRT

The SS Baltanglia was a British steam cargo ship with a varied career before its wartime demise. Built in 1921 by the Ardrossan Dry Dock & Shipbuilding Co., it began life as the Laatefos, later being renamed the Langford in 1923 before finally sailing as the Baltanglia. With a triple-expansion engine and a single screw, it was a typical freighter of its era, plying the trade routes of the North Sea and the Atlantic.

Its service came to a violent end in the early months of World War II. On January 23, 1940, while sailing unescorted from Norway to Leith, Scotland, with a cargo of wood pulp, the Baltanglia was intercepted by the German U-boat U-19. A single torpedo struck the vessel, sinking it swiftly and tragically with the loss of all 20 crew members. The attack was a stark example of the brutal U-boat campaign that targeted Allied merchant shipping from the war's outset.

Today, the wreck of the Baltanglia lies at a depth of 59 meters off the Scottish coast, placing it firmly in the realm of technical diving. The deep, cold waters have preserved the wreck remarkably well, though it is showing signs of collapse. Divers who make the challenging descent are rewarded with the sight of a largely intact vessel, its boilers and engine visible, standing as a silent memorial to the mariners who were lost in the Battle of the Atlantic.

Marine Protected Area: Farnes East

Nearby Dive Sites in Scottish East Coast & Borders

Nearest Dive Centres to BALTANGLIA

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 are the typical depths for recreational diving at Baltanglia, and are there opportunities for deeper technical dives?
The Baltanglia wreck is situated at a depth of 59 meters, placing it firmly in the realm of technical diving rather than typical recreational limits. This significant depth offers extensive opportunities for experienced technical divers to explore the entire 77.9m x 12m steam ship vessel. Therefore, it is primarily suited for those with advanced technical diving certifications.
What kind of marine life and underwater features, such as wrecks, can divers expect to see at Baltanglia?
Divers visiting Baltanglia will primarily explore the impressive steam ship vessel, which sank on January 23, 1940. This substantial wreck measures 77.9m x 12m and is classified as a non-dangerous wreck, offering a fascinating historical dive. While specific marine life details are not provided in the data, wrecks often become artificial reefs attracting various species over time, which you can learn more about on our wildlife database.
How challenging is diving at Baltanglia, considering factors like water temperature and overall difficulty for divers?
Diving at Baltanglia is rated as intermediate difficulty, primarily due to its significant depth of 59 meters. This depth requires divers to have appropriate training and experience for safe exploration. While specific water temperature data is not available, divers should be prepared for conditions typical of the Scottish East Coast.
What is the best time of year to dive Baltanglia for optimal weather and underwater conditions?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year to dive Baltanglia for optimal weather and underwater conditions. Divers interested in planning their trip should consult local dive operators for current conditions and seasonal recommendations. General information about diving seasons can often be found on our When to Dive page.
What specific scuba diving certifications, including drysuit or wreck specialties, are recommended or required for diving at Baltanglia?
Given the depth of 59 meters and the wreck type, divers should possess advanced certifications, likely including technical diving qualifications, to safely explore Baltanglia. A wreck specialty certification is highly recommended to properly navigate and appreciate the historical steam ship vessel. These certifications ensure divers have the necessary skills for such an intermediate difficulty dive.
What are the typical current conditions and water visibility like at the Baltanglia dive site?
The provided data does not include specific information regarding typical current conditions or water visibility at the Baltanglia dive site. Divers are advised to consult with local dive centers or experienced guides for up-to-date information on these dynamic conditions before planning their dive.