BRANKSEA (POSSIBLY) - Scottish East Coast & Borders

The Branksea, a steamship built in 1890, met its end in 1940 and now rests at a substantial 60m. Originally bought by the Admiralty to be scuttled as a blockship at Scapa Flow, she never made it, offering us a deep, atmospheric dive instead. We find her largely intact, a single boiler and compound expansion engine still visible, hinting at her working life. Expect to see plenty of coalfish darting through the superstructure and the hull plates providing shelter for various crabs. This is a dive for experienced technical divers comfortable with depth and the chill of the North Sea, a rewarding exploration of a less-frequented piece of maritime history.

Location
Scottish East Coast & Borders, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
57.024265, -1.998667
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
60m

Marine Protected Area: Cove

Nearby Dive Sites in Scottish East Coast & Borders

Nearest Dive Centres to BRANKSEA (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 depth range for diving at Branksome Chine?
The BRANKSEA (POSSIBLY) dive site, located off the Scottish East Coast & Borders, has a typical depth of 60 meters. This makes it a deep dive, suitable for experienced divers with appropriate training.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at Branksome Chine?
Divers exploring the BRANKSEA (POSSIBLY) site can expect to encounter a fascinating steam ship wreck, measuring 34.2m x 6.4m. This vessel, sunk on February 10, 1940, features one boiler and a compound expansion engine, offering intriguing historical exploration. While specific marine life details are not provided, wrecks often attract various species over time.
How challenging is the Branksome Chine dive site for different experience levels, considering currents and entry/exit conditions?
The BRANKSEA (POSSIBLY) dive site is classified as having an intermediate difficulty level. This suggests it is suitable for divers with some experience. Specific details regarding currents or entry/exit conditions are not provided in the available data, so divers should consult local dive operators for the most current information.
What is the best time of year and tidal conditions to dive at Branksome Chine for optimal experience?
Information regarding the best time of year or specific tidal conditions for diving at BRANKSEA (POSSIBLY) is not available in the provided data. For optimal experience, divers should consult local dive centers or refer to general when to dive resources for the Scottish East Coast & Borders.
What scuba diving certifications are typically required or recommended to dive at Branksome Chine?
Given the BRANKSEA (POSSIBLY) site's depth of 60 meters and intermediate difficulty, advanced or technical diving certifications are typically required or highly recommended. Divers should possess training for deep diving to safely explore this wreck. Always confirm specific requirements with your dive operator.
What are the usual water conditions, such as visibility and currents, at Branksome Chine?
Details regarding the usual water conditions, including visibility and currents, for the BRANKSEA (POSSIBLY) dive site are not provided in the available data. Divers planning a trip to the Scottish East Coast & Borders should check with local dive centers for up-to-date conditions.