HMS IVANHOE - Scottish East Coast & Borders

The HMS Ivanhoe is a proper little time capsule, sitting in just two metres of water near Eyemouth. We love a wreck you can actually spend some time on without deep decompression, and this trawler, pressed into service as a minesweeper, fits the bill perfectly. Built in 1898, she went down in 1914, so you’re looking at over a century of history right there. Even in the shallow East Coast water, the wreck has held up well. You can still trace the outline of the hull, and we’ve found the triple expansion engine surprisingly intact, a solid chunk of industrial heritage now coated in green algae and anemones. Visibility can swing a bit here, but on a good day, the sunlight filters right through to the seabed, illuminating crabs scuttling over the plates and small wrasse darting between the frames. It’s an easy dive, perfect for photographers wanting to play with ambient light or anyone who enjoys pottering about a bit of history. We’d suggest timing your dive for slack water, just to avoid any surge, though at this depth, it’s rarely a problem.

Location
Scottish East Coast & Borders, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
55.991600, -3.168094
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
2m

Marine Protected Area: Imperial Dock Lock, Leith

Nearby Dive Sites in Scottish East Coast & Borders

Nearest Dive Centres to HMS IVANHOE

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 the HMS Ivanhoe wreck?
The HMS Ivanhoe wreck is exceptionally shallow, with a typical depth of just 2 meters. This makes it a very accessible dive, allowing for extended bottom times and easy exploration of the historical vessel.
What can divers expect to see on the HMS Ivanhoe wreck, including marine life and historical artifacts?
Divers exploring the HMS Ivanhoe can expect to see the remains of a 34.2m x 6.4m trawler vessel, built in 1898 and sunk in 1914. This historical wreck, classified as showing portions of its hull or superstructure, offers a glimpse into early 20th-century maritime history. While specific marine life is not detailed, wrecks often attract various local species; you can learn more about common wildlife in the region.
How difficult is the HMS Ivanhoe dive site, and what level of diving experience is recommended?
The HMS Ivanhoe dive site is classified as intermediate in difficulty. This suggests that divers should have some prior experience beyond basic open water certification and be comfortable with wreck diving fundamentals.
What is the best time of year to dive the HMS Ivanhoe for optimal weather and water conditions?
Information regarding the best time of year to dive the HMS Ivanhoe for optimal weather and water conditions is not specified in the provided data. We recommend consulting local dive operators or checking our When to Dive section for general guidance on the Scottish East Coast.
Are there any specific diving certifications required or highly recommended to explore the HMS Ivanhoe?
While specific certification requirements are not explicitly stated, given the HMS Ivanhoe is an intermediate-level wreck dive, an Advanced Open Water certification is highly recommended. For those interested in exploring wrecks more thoroughly, a Wreck Diver specialty certification would provide valuable skills and knowledge.
What are the typical current and visibility conditions at the HMS Ivanhoe dive site in the North Sea?
The provided data does not include specific information on the typical current or visibility conditions at the HMS Ivanhoe dive site. Divers should always consult with local dive centers for up-to-date conditions before planning their dive.