CAIRNGLEN - Scottish East Coast & Borders

We love a good shallow wreck, and Cairnglen delivers on the Scottish East Coast. At only 3 metres deep, it's less a dive and more a proper snorkel or very short scuba exploration, but don’t let that put you off. This 122-metre steamship, sunk in 1940, offers a surprising amount of detail for such a shallow wreck. You’ll weave through sections of deck plating, catch glimpses of the three massive boilers, and trace the lines of the hull, now draped in green fronds of kelp. Sunlight dapples through the water, illuminating schools of saithe that ghost between the rusting metal, and we’ve often spotted lobsters tucked into crevices. It’s an accessible slice of history, perfect for a quick dip on a calm day when the visibility clears up, letting you really appreciate the scale of the vessel. We'd suggest aiming for a slack tide to avoid any surface chop, making the swim much more pleasant.

Location
Scottish East Coast & Borders, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
54.985900, -1.378283
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
3m

Wreck History - CAIRNGLEN

Year Sunk
1940
Vessel Type
cargo ship
Cause
torpedo
Tonnage
5,019 GRT

The SS Cairnglen was a 5,019 GRT steamship built in 1926 for the Cairn Line of Steamships. With the outbreak of the Second World War, it became a vital part of the Allied war effort, transporting goods across the treacherous North Atlantic. In October 1940, while sailing as part of Convoy OB-229, the Cairnglen was targeted by the German U-boat U-38. On October 22, a torpedo struck the vessel, crippling it and sending it to the bottom off the Scottish coast. The sinking was a stark reminder of the deadly efficiency of the U-boat wolfpacks during the Battle of the Atlantic.

What makes the Cairnglen an extraordinary dive site is its extreme shallow depth of just 3 meters. This makes it one of the most accessible wrecks in the region, suitable for snorkelers and novice divers as well as seasoned explorers. Having been battered by waves and storms for decades, the wreck is extensively broken up and scattered across the seabed. Exploring the site feels like a shallow-water scavenger hunt, with divers able to easily identify the massive boilers, sections of the turbine engines, and twisted hull plates. The wreckage is carpeted in kelp and seaweed, providing a rich habitat for small fish and crustaceans, making it a lively and interesting site despite its fragmented state.

Marine Protected Area: Tynemouth to Seaton Sluice

Nearby Dive Sites in Scottish East Coast & Borders

Nearest Dive Centres to CAIRNGLEN

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 of the CAIRNGLEN shipwreck dive site?
The CAIRNGLEN shipwreck dive site has a maximum depth of 3 meters. This very shallow depth makes it quite accessible for divers, though other factors contribute to its intermediate difficulty.
What kind of marine life and wreck remnants can divers expect to see at the CAIRNGLEN dive site?
Divers exploring the CAIRNGLEN shipwreck can expect to see the remnants of a steam ship vessel, which sank on October 22, 1940. Key features include its three boilers, triple turbine engines of 530 NHP, and a single shaft. The vessel itself measures 122.2m x 16.8m, offering a substantial wreck to explore.
How difficult is the CAIRNGLEN shipwreck dive, and is it suitable for beginner divers?
The CAIRNGLEN shipwreck dive is classified as intermediate difficulty. While its shallow depth of 3 meters might seem appealing, the 'Dangerous wreck' classification suggests potential hazards. Therefore, it is generally not recommended for beginner divers without appropriate supervision and experience.
What are the best times of year or weather conditions to dive the CAIRNGLEN shipwreck for optimal visibility and safety?
Unfortunately, specific data regarding the best times of year or optimal weather conditions for diving the CAIRNGLEN shipwreck to ensure optimal visibility and safety is not provided in the current context. We recommend checking local dive conditions and forecasts before planning your dive. For general guidance on dive planning, you can visit our When to Dive section.
What scuba diving certifications are required to dive the CAIRNGLEN shipwreck?
Given that the CAIRNGLEN shipwreck is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive, divers should possess at least an Advanced Open Water certification or equivalent experience. Additionally, due to its classification as a 'Dangerous wreck,' specialized wreck diving training may be highly recommended for safe exploration. Always ensure you dive within your certification limits and comfort zone.
What are the typical current and sea conditions at the CAIRNGLEN dive site?
The provided data for the CAIRNGLEN dive site does not include specific information on typical current or sea conditions. Divers planning to visit this site should consult local dive operators or resources for up-to-date information on prevailing conditions. Always prioritize safety by understanding the environment before entering the water.