FIRELIGHT (POSSIBLY)
Protected Area
Tynemouth to Seaton Sluice
Why dive here
With 112+ marine species recorded in the area - including dolphins, dwarf minke whales, humpback whales, ocean sunfish (mola mola) and orcas - FIRELIGHT (POSSIBLY) offers some of Scottish East Coast & Borders's richest wreck diving.
The Firelight, formerly the Rookwood, rests at 36 metres off the Scottish East Coast, a sombre yet fascinating dive. This isn't a site for the faint of heart or the inexperienced; currents can be strong, and the visibility, well, it’s Scotland. We’ve had days where the ambient light barely penetrates, and others where it’s surprisingly clear, revealing the wreck’s full, broken form. What makes this particular torpedoed steamship so compelling is its sheer sense of history. Built in 1896 and sunk in 1917, you can still make out the twin boilers, a stark reminder of its past. The triple expansion engine is a tangle of machinery, now home to a surprising number of squat lobsters and the occasional ling peeking from dark corners. Exploring the 71.9-metre length, you'll fin past sections of hull plating, heavily encrusted with dead man's fingers and colourful anemones. Our favourite part is navigating the broken stern, where conger eels have set up residence in the deeper recesses. This is a wreck for those who appreciate maritime history and don't mind a bit of a challenge.
Typical FIRELIGHT (POSSIBLY) Dive Profile
Illustrative profile based on site depth and type. Actual dive profiles vary - always follow your dive computer and training.
Safety Notes
Deep dive (36m) - monitor air consumption closely. Advanced certification recommended.
Wreck site - avoid penetration without wreck diving certification. Watch for sharp metal and entanglement hazards.
Always perform a 3-minute safety stop at 5m before surfacing.
Nearest Dive Centres to FIRELIGHT (POSSIBLY)
Dive shops near FIRELIGHT (POSSIBLY)
Aquanorth
The Diving Centre Ltd
Sunderland Scuba Centre
Northumbria Scuba Divers
Scuba-Life
Aqua Purists
Reviews for FIRELIGHT (POSSIBLY)
Conditions
Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for FIRELIGHT (POSSIBLY)
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