DOWNIE HILLS - Scottish East Coast & Borders

Downie Hills is one of those shallow wrecks we keep coming back to, especially when the weather’s a bit frisky elsewhere. You’re looking at a trawler from 1917, sunk in 1926, and she’s sitting in just 4 metres of water. That makes for some seriously long bottom times. We love dropping in on a calm day, when the sun penetrates the surface and lights up the deck. The visibility here can be surprisingly good, sometimes 10 metres or more, which really lets you appreciate the hull. Our favourite thing about Downie Hills is the way the wreck has become a home. You’ll spot crabs scuttling between the ribs of the hull and schools of juvenile coalfish darting through the superstructure. Keep an eye out for the plumose anemones, they’re everywhere, waving gently in the surge. Exploring the exposed boiler is always a highlight; it’s still very much intact. The site is perfect for newer wreck divers or photographers wanting to spend time framing shots without worrying about deco limits. It’s also a solid choice for a second dive.

Location

Scottish East Coast & Borders, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe

Coordinates

56.279350, -2.582634

Type

wreck

Maximum Depth

4m

Marine Protected Area: Kilminning Coast