HARLEY (PART OF)(POSSIBLY)

Protected Area

Isle of May

Why dive here

With 112+ marine species recorded in the area - including dolphins, dwarf minke whales, humpback whales, ocean sunfish (mola mola) and orcas - HARLEY (PART OF)(POSSIBLY) offers some of Scottish East Coast & Borders's richest wreck diving.

Marine lifeDolphins, Dwarf Minke Whales, Humpback Whales, Ocean Sunfish (Mola Mola) and Orcas · 112+ species recorded

CharacterWreck dive · max 50m

StandoutRich in charismatic marine life

We’ll be honest, the Scottish East Coast can be a tough mistress, but the Harley offers a proper wreck dive for those who don’t mind a bit of a chill. This isn’t a shallow reef bimble; dropping to 50 metres, it’s a dark, atmospheric dive that really pulls you into its history. Sunk in 1944, probably overwhelmed by weather, the ship’s structure is still quite recognisable, a testament to its solid build. What we love about the Harley is the sense of discovery. You drop down onto the deck, the light fading quickly as you descend. The stern section is particularly interesting, with the prop shaft leading back to the screw, often encrusted with dead man’s fingers. Inside, the boiler looms large, a ghostly reminder of the engine room. Keep an eye out for conger eels peering from dark recesses, and those vibrant plumose anemones clinging to every surface, catching what little light penetrates the depths. This is a dive for experienced wreck enthusiasts who appreciate the stark beauty of a cold-water wreck and the stories it holds. It’s a challenging dive, but one that leaves a lasting impression.