BRITISH OFFICER (AFTER PART) - Scottish East Coast & Borders

The British Officer’s stern section, resting at 13 metres, is a proper dive, especially on a day with decent vis. We’re not talking tropical colours, obviously, but the structure itself is fascinating. You drop onto a jumble of twisted metal, part of the stern, with the propeller and rudder still clearly identifiable. It’s a good size for an hour’s exploration, letting you poke around without feeling rushed. Our favourite part is weaving through the skeletal remains of the superstructure, where crabs seem to be having a permanent convention. We’ve seen conger eels tucked into some of the bigger gaps, just their heads peeking out, looking grumpy. The steel plates are draped in anemones, mostly plumose, swaying gently, and the odd nudibranch can be found if you slow down and actually look. It’s a rewarding wreck for those who appreciate history and don't mind a bit of a chill; a drysuit is definitely our recommendation. It’s perfect for divers who enjoy taking their time and really getting to grips with a site.

Location
Scottish East Coast & Borders, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
55.012480, -1.401783
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
13m

Wreck History - BRITISH OFFICER (AFTER PART)

Year Sunk
1940
Vessel Type
tanker
Cause
torpedo
Tonnage
6,991 GRT

The British Officer was a tanker built in 1922 for the British Tanker Co. Ltd. During the Second World War, she served a vital role in transporting fuel. On December 1, 1940, while off the Scottish coast, she was struck by a torpedo from the German U-boat U-52. The explosion was catastrophic, breaking the tanker in two. The bow section sank almost immediately, but the stern remained stubbornly afloat.

An attempt was made to tow the surviving aft part of the ship to safety, but the notoriously rough North Sea had other plans. The stern section was eventually overwhelmed by heavy weather and sank. Today, the wreck of the 'After Part' lies in just 13 metres of water, making it a highly accessible dive. While heavily salvaged and broken over the decades, divers can still identify the ship's massive boilers and turbine machinery, offering a tangible connection to this dramatic WWII event.

Marine Protected Area: Tynemouth to Seaton Sluice

Nearby Dive Sites in Scottish East Coast & Borders

Nearest Dive Centres to BRITISH OFFICER (AFTER PART)

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 the 'BRITISH OFFICER (AFTER PART)' wreck in the River Tyne?
The 'BRITISH OFFICER (AFTER PART)' wreck is typically found at a depth of 13m. This relatively shallow depth makes it accessible for many divers exploring this historic site off the Scottish East Coast. You can find more details about this dive at BRITISH OFFICER (AFTER PART).
What kind of marine life and wreck features can divers expect to see at the 'BRITISH OFFICER (AFTER PART)' dive site?
The 'BRITISH OFFICER (AFTER PART)' is a tanker vessel, measuring 134.1m x 17.4m, and divers can expect to explore its distributed remains. Key features include its three boilers, two turbines, and single shaft, offering a glimpse into its 1922 construction. While specific marine life is not detailed in our current data for this site, you can learn more about general marine life often found in wreck environments.
How challenging is the 'BRITISH OFFICER (AFTER PART)' wreck dive, considering its location and condition?
The 'BRITISH OFFICER (AFTER PART)' wreck dive is classified as intermediate difficulty. Divers should be prepared for exploring distributed remains of the wreck, which can present unique navigation challenges. Its location off the Scottish East Coast also implies conditions typical for North Sea diving.
What are the best times of year and tidal conditions to dive the 'BRITISH OFFICER (AFTER PART)' wreck for optimal visibility and safety?
Our current data for the 'BRITISH OFFICER (AFTER PART)' wreck does not specify the best times of year or optimal tidal conditions for diving. For general guidance on planning your dives, we recommend consulting our When to Dive section for broader insights into regional diving conditions. Always check local dive operators for up-to-date information on visibility and safety.
What scuba diving certifications are recommended or required to dive the 'BRITISH OFFICER (AFTER PART)' wreck?
Given the 'BRITISH OFFICER (AFTER PART)' wreck is rated as an intermediate difficulty dive, certifications such as Advanced Open Water Diver or equivalent are generally recommended. This ensures divers have the necessary experience and skills for navigating wreck environments and potentially varying conditions. Always consult with local dive centers for specific requirements and equipment recommendations.
What are the typical currents and underwater visibility like at the 'BRITISH OFFICER (AFTER PART)' dive site in the River Tyne?
Our current data for the 'BRITISH OFFICER (AFTER PART)' dive site does not include specific details on typical currents or underwater visibility. Conditions can vary significantly at any given time, so it's always best to consult with local dive operators or guides before planning your dive to the BRITISH OFFICER (AFTER PART) wreck.