FORFARSHIRE - Scottish East Coast & Borders

The Forfarshire, sitting in a mere 5m of water, is a proper history lesson. This isn't some deep, dark mystery; it’s a tangible piece of maritime heritage, practically begging you to touch it (though, of course, don’t). We love how accessible she is, sunk in 1838. You can spend an entire dive finning slowly over the remnants of her paddlewheels, imagining the steam and the bustle. What you'll find here are the scattered bones of a paddle steamer, her composite construction evident in the timbers and ironwork fused into the seabed. Look for the two large boilers, now encrusted and home to scuttling crabs and small blennies peeking out from every crevice. Visibility can be a typical Scottish affair – sometimes a bit murky, sometimes surprisingly clear – but even on a low-vis day, her shallow depth means there’s enough ambient light to make out the ghostly shapes of her hull. It’s perfect for new wreck divers, or anyone who enjoys a leisurely poke around a site with a good story. Our favourite moments here are always spent hovering just inches above the deck planks, watching small fish dart between the timbers, a constant reminder of how nature reclaims everything.

Location

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

Coordinates

55.640003, -1.622452

Type

wreck

Maximum Depth

5m

Marine Protected Area: Farne Islands