BALZAC - Scottish East Coast & Borders

We love the Balzac for its sheer presence on the seabed. It’s a proper ship, sunk in 1940, and you feel that history when you descend. Dropping onto the wreck at 13m, the bow comes into view first, rising up from the sand. The ship is largely intact, with much of its structure still holding together, unlike some of the more broken-up sites around here. You can swim through a few open sections, feeling the cool water swirl around you as you pass through what were once working compartments. Our favourite part is exploring the engine room, where the big 6-cylinder oil engine still sits, a silent monument to its past. Look closely and you’ll find plenty of inquisitive wrasse darting in and out of the plating, and sometimes a ling or a hefty conger eel tucked away in a dark corner. The visibility can be variable, so we'd suggest picking a calm day with minimal swell for the best experience. It’s a site that suits divers who appreciate historical wrecks and enjoy a good rummage.

Location
Scottish East Coast & Borders, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
54.915966, -1.326950
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
13m

Wreck History - BALZAC

Year Sunk
1940
Vessel Type
cargo ship
Cause
air attack

The history of British merchant shipping is dominated by famous companies like Lamport and Holt. Founded in Liverpool in 1845, the line became a major player in the trade routes to the east coast of South America. The company was eventually taken over by the Royal Mail Steam Packet Company in 1911 and later became part of the Vestey Group's Blue Star Line in 1944, before ceasing to trade in 1991. Its legacy is intertwined with the growth of global trade and the great age of steam.

The wreck itself is the Norwegian motor vessel Balzac, owned by A/S Ganger Rolf (Fred Olsen) at the time of her loss. Built in Denmark in 1921, she was a modern vessel for her time. Her career came to an abrupt end on July 26, 1940, during the early stages of World War II. While on passage off the Scottish coast, she fell victim to a German aerial attack and was sunk. Today, the Balzac lies in just 13 meters of water, making her a fantastic and highly accessible wreck for novice divers. The shallow depth allows for long bottom times to explore the scattered remains of this wartime casualty.

Marine Protected Area: Noses Point

Nearby Dive Sites in Scottish East Coast & Borders

Nearest Dive Centres to BALZAC

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 maximum depth at the BALZAC dive site?
The maximum depth at the BALZAC dive site is 13 meters. This makes it a relatively shallow wreck dive, suitable for divers looking for accessible historical sites.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can be seen at BALZAC?
The primary underwater feature at BALZAC is the wreck of a motor vessel, sunk on July 26, 1940. Measuring 65.5m x 10.5m, this historical wreck provides an intriguing structure for exploration. While specific marine life details are not provided, wrecks typically attract a variety of local species, which you can learn more about in our wildlife database.
How difficult is diving at BALZAC, and is it suitable for beginners?
Diving at the BALZAC dive site is classified as intermediate difficulty. Due to this classification, it is generally not recommended for absolute beginners. Divers should possess adequate experience and training for wreck diving to safely explore this site.
What is the best time of year to dive at the BALZAC dive site for optimal conditions?
Specific information regarding the best time of year for optimal diving conditions at the BALZAC dive site is not available in our current data. For general guidance on seasonal diving in the Scottish East Coast & Borders, we recommend consulting our When to Dive section.
Are there any specific diving certifications required to dive at BALZAC?
While specific certification requirements are not explicitly stated for the BALZAC dive site, its classification as an "intermediate" and "dangerous wreck" suggests that advanced certifications or specialized wreck diving training would be highly beneficial. Always ensure you have the appropriate experience and certifications for challenging dive environments.
What are the typical currents and water conditions like at the BALZAC dive site?
Our current data does not provide specific details on the typical currents or water conditions at the BALZAC dive site. Divers planning to visit should always consult local dive operators for the most up-to-date information on conditions before entering the water.