HESVIK (POSSIBLY) - Scottish East Coast & Borders

The Hesvik sits off St. Abbs, a steamship that went down in 1914. It’s a proper expedition dive, often with a bit of a current, but entirely worth the effort. We love dropping down the line onto the deck, typically finding decent visibility for a Scottish wreck. The stern is our favourite section, where the prop shaft stretches out into the gloom, often draped in dead man's fingers. You’ll find the single boiler standing proud midships, a home for countless crabs and the occasional grumpy ling. We'd suggest a good dive light for peering into the holds; they can be surprisingly clear, revealing the ship's internal structure. It's a dive that rewards careful exploration, not a quick look. The Hesvik is a site for experienced wreck divers, those who appreciate history and don't mind a deeper profile. It’s not about flashy colours, but the sheer scale of the wreck and the life that now calls it home. You'll often see schools of coalfish darting through the superstructure, and the ironwork provides a fantastic substrate for anemones.

Location
Scottish East Coast & Borders, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
55.469800, -1.494617
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
38m

Marine Protected Area: Castle Point to Cullernose Point

Nearby Dive Sites in Scottish East Coast & Borders

Nearest Dive Centres to HESVIK (POSSIBLY)

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 are the typical dive depths and maximum depths for recreational diving in Hesvik, Norway?
The dive site HESVIK (POSSIBLY) is located off the Scottish East Coast & Borders, United Kingdom, not Norway. For this site, the typical and maximum depth for recreational diving is 38 meters, making it a deep dive suitable for appropriately certified divers.
What kind of marine life, wrecks, or underwater topography can divers expect to see when diving in Hesvik?
Divers exploring HESVIK (POSSIBLY) can expect to encounter a significant steam ship wreck. This non-dangerous wreck, measuring 71.1m x 10.7m, was built in 1897 and sank on September 23, 1914, offering a fascinating historical dive experience.
How difficult is diving in Hesvik, and is it suitable for beginner or advanced divers?
Diving at HESVIK (POSSIBLY) is classified as intermediate difficulty. With a depth of 38 meters, it is generally suitable for divers with an Advanced Open Water certification or equivalent experience, rather than beginners.
What is the best time of year to go scuba diving in Hesvik for the best visibility and conditions?
The provided data for HESVIK (POSSIBLY) does not specify the best time of year for optimal visibility or diving conditions. For general guidance on seasonal diving in the Scottish East Coast, we recommend consulting our When to Dive resource.
Are there any specific certifications required to dive at Hesvik, beyond standard Open Water Diver?
Given the intermediate difficulty and a depth of 38 meters, diving at HESVIK (POSSIBLY) would typically require certifications beyond standard Open Water Diver. An Advanced Open Water Diver certification or a deep diver specialty would be highly recommended to safely explore this site.
What are the typical water temperatures, currents, and visibility conditions like for diving around Hesvik?
The provided data for HESVIK (POSSIBLY) does not include specific details on typical water temperatures, currents, or visibility conditions. Divers planning to visit this Scottish East Coast wreck should consult local dive operators for up-to-date environmental information.