HEISTAD - Scottish East Coast & Borders

Heistad is one of those wrecks that really tells a story, even if you have to work a bit for it. She’s a wooden sailing vessel, and while the bows are pretty broken up, a lot of her midsection and stern still hold together. We love nosing around the frames and timbers, imagining the crew’s final moments back in 1916 during that brutal storm. Visibility here can swing wildly, so pick your day carefully, ideally after a few dry days with no big swells. We'd suggest aiming for slack water, too; the currents around Montrose Bay can be spirited. What we really enjoy is the sheer amount of life that's made a home in the wreckage: big wrasse patrol the deeper sections, and you'll often find conger eels tucked into the more sheltered spots. The seabed around the wreck is usually dotted with scallops, a bonus for the keen-eyed. It’s a dive that rewards patience and a good torch, perfect for divers who appreciate history and don't mind a bit of a rummage.

Location
Scottish East Coast & Borders, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
56.716522, -2.434899
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
0m

Marine Protected Area: Rickle Craig - Scurdie Ness

Nearby Dive Sites in Scottish East Coast & Borders

Nearest Dive Centres to HEISTAD

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 diving depth at the HEISTAD dive site?
The HEISTAD dive site is noted for an exceptionally shallow depth of 0m. This suggests that the wreck may be partially exposed or located in very shallow waters, making it accessible for a unique type of exploration. Divers should be prepared for conditions typical of extremely shallow environments.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at HEISTAD?
At the HEISTAD dive site, divers will explore the fascinating underwater features of a wooden sailing vessel, sunk on November 19, 1916. This wreck, measuring 38m x 8.2m, is classified as showing a portion of its hull or superstructure, offering an intriguing structure to investigate. While specific marine life is not detailed in the provided data, wrecks commonly serve as artificial reefs, attracting various species over time which you can learn more about in our wildlife database.
How challenging is diving at HEISTAD for different skill levels?
Diving at the HEISTAD dive site is rated as intermediate difficulty. This classification suggests that while it's not suitable for absolute beginners, divers with some experience and appropriate training will find it a rewarding exploration. It's recommended that divers have a good grasp of buoyancy control and wreck diving basics for this site.
What is the best time of year to dive at HEISTAD for optimal conditions?
The current data for the HEISTAD dive site does not specify the best time of year for optimal diving conditions. For up-to-date information on seasonal variations and ideal diving periods, we recommend consulting local dive centers in the Scottish East Coast & Borders region. You can also explore our When to Dive section for general guidance.
Are there any specific certifications required to dive at HEISTAD?
While the data does not explicitly list specific certifications required for the HEISTAD dive site, its intermediate difficulty rating implies a need for experience beyond basic open water certification. Divers should be comfortable with wreck diving environments and possess strong buoyancy control. Consulting with a local dive operator in the Scottish East Coast & Borders is always recommended for the most current requirements.
What are the usual currents and visibility conditions like at the HEISTAD dive site?
Information regarding the usual currents and visibility conditions at the HEISTAD dive site is not available in the current dataset. Given its location in Scottish East Coast & Borders and its shallow depth, conditions can vary significantly. It is always advisable to check with local dive centers for real-time reports on currents and visibility before planning your dive.