HMS NORTHUMBRIA - Scottish East Coast & Borders

The HMS Northumbria, resting at 34 metres off the Scottish East Coast, is a proper dive, certainly one of our favourites in the area. This armed patrol sweeper, sunk by a mine in 1917, is largely intact, which is always a bonus when you're exploring wrecks from this era. We love how the stern section has opened up, giving you a chance to fin through parts of the engine room if you're comfortable with overhead environments and your buoyancy is dialled in. You'll find plenty of life making a home here. Ling often lurk in the deeper nooks, and the plates are carpeted with plumose anemones, their white tentacles swaying with the gentle surge. Visibility can be a bit of a gamble, as it often is in these waters, but when it's good, say 8-10 metres, the Northumbria is a genuinely atmospheric dive. The bow section, with its sweeping lines, is particularly photogenic, especially when a curious pollack swims into view. It’s a dive for those who appreciate history and don't mind a bit of a current; best tackled on a neap tide.

Location
Scottish East Coast & Borders, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
56.204050, -2.577483
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
34m

Marine Protected Area: Isle of May

Nearby Dive Sites in Scottish East Coast & Borders

Nearest Dive Centres to HMS NORTHUMBRIA

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

How deep is the HMS Northumberland shipwreck dive site?
The HMS Northumbria shipwreck dive site has a maximum depth of 34 meters. This makes it an intermediate-level dive, suitable for divers with appropriate training and experience.
What kind of artifacts and marine life can divers expect to see on the HMS Northumberland wreck?
Divers exploring the HMS Northumbria wreck, a former trawler and armed patrol sweeper, can expect to see its structural components. These include the remains of its single boiler, triple expansion engine, and single shaft machinery. Specific details regarding marine life inhabiting the wreck are not provided in the current data.
How challenging is diving the HMS Northumberland wreck, considering currents and conditions?
Diving the HMS Northumbria wreck is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive. It is also noted as a dangerous wreck, indicating that divers should approach it with caution and appropriate experience. While specific current and visibility conditions are not detailed, the classification suggests that divers should be prepared for potentially challenging environments.
What is the best time of year or tidal condition to dive the HMS Northumberland for optimal visibility and safety?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year or optimal tidal conditions for diving the HMS Northumbria wreck to ensure optimal visibility and safety. For general guidance on dive planning and conditions, you may consult DivePlnr's when-to-dive resources.
What diving certifications are recommended or required to safely dive the HMS Northumberland?
Given the HMS Northumbria wreck's depth of 34 meters and its classification as an intermediate difficulty wreck dive, divers should hold at least an Advanced Open Water certification. Additionally, a Wreck Diver specialty certification is highly recommended to safely navigate and explore this type of site.
What are the typical current and visibility conditions like at the HMS Northumberland dive site?
The provided data does not detail the typical current and visibility conditions at the HMS Northumbria dive site. However, its classification as an intermediate difficulty and a dangerous wreck suggests that divers should be prepared for potentially challenging conditions, which may include variable currents or visibility. Always check local dive reports before planning your dive.