GOOD DESIGN - Scottish East Coast & Borders

The *Good Design* isn't your average lump of metal on the seabed. This former fishing vessel, requisitioned for patrol duty and then mined off Inchkeith in 1940, has settled into two distinct halves, offering a real sense of its violent end. We’d suggest focusing on the stern section first, it’s often the more intact of the two. Descending to 22 metres, you’ll find the wreck well-colonised by life. The hull plates are thick with dead man's fingers, and we often spot wolf fish tucked into crevices, their watchful eyes following your torch beam. Look for the distinct bow section lying a little distance away; it’s a more broken-up scene but still holds that ghostly outline of a working boat. We love how the story of its wartime demise adds a layer to the dive; it’s more than just a wreck, it’s a piece of history. Visibility here can be temperamental, as is typical for the East Coast, so pick your day carefully – calm conditions with a flood tide often yield the best results. This is a dive for those who appreciate maritime history and the hardy marine life that thrives in these northern waters.

Location
Scottish East Coast & Borders, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
56.048817, -3.106994
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
22m

Marine Protected Area: Firth of Forth

Nearby Dive Sites in Scottish East Coast & Borders

Nearest Dive Centres to GOOD DESIGN

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 at the 'GOOD DESIGN' dive site?
The 'GOOD DESIGN' dive site has a typical depth of 22 meters. This makes it an accessible wreck dive for those with appropriate training and experience in deeper environments.
What kind of marine life and underwater topography can divers expect to see at 'GOOD DESIGN'?
Divers at 'GOOD DESIGN' can expect to explore the remains of a 21.9m x 4.6m patrol boat vessel, which was sunk in 1940 and broke into two halves. While specific marine life data isn't provided, wrecks in the Scottish East Coast often attract various local species. You can learn more about common marine life in the area by visiting our wildlife database.
How challenging is the 'GOOD DESIGN' dive site, and is it suitable for beginner divers?
The 'GOOD DESIGN' dive site is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive. With a depth of 22 meters and its classification as a "Dangerous wreck," it is not suitable for beginner divers. Divers should possess the necessary experience and certifications for wreck diving to safely explore this site.
What is the best time of year or season to dive at 'GOOD DESIGN' for optimal conditions and marine encounters?
Specific data regarding the best time of year for optimal conditions at 'GOOD DESIGN' is not provided. However, diving in the Scottish East Coast generally benefits from calmer seas and potentially better visibility during the summer months. For general guidance on seasonal diving, please refer to our When to Dive resource.
Are there any specific scuba diving certifications required to dive at the 'GOOD DESIGN' site?
Given its intermediate difficulty, 22-meter depth, and classification as a "Dangerous wreck," divers should possess at least an Advanced Open Water certification or specialized wreck diving certifications to safely explore 'GOOD DESIGN'. It's crucial to have experience with deeper dives and potential overhead environments.
What are the usual current conditions and visibility like at the 'GOOD DESIGN' dive site?
Specific information regarding the usual current conditions and visibility at the 'GOOD DESIGN' dive site is not provided in the available data. As with many sites along the Scottish East Coast, conditions can vary, so it's always advisable to check local reports before planning your dive.