HMS ST BRIAC - Scottish East Coast & Borders

Diving the St. Briac is always a proper adventure. She sits deep, at 56 metres, so this is one for the tech crowd, but the rewards are there if you're prepared for the depth and the usual chill of the North Sea. We love that she's so intact, considering she was sunk as an air target in 1942. You can still make out the twin screws, and the turbines are a real highlight, even with the years of growth. The wreck itself is a magnet for life. Big cod often cruise the superstructure, and we’ve seen some seriously large ling tucked away in the darker corners. The anemones on the decking can be surprisingly colourful, a real splash of orange and pink against the aged metal. Our favourite part has to be tracing the lines of the old passenger ferry; you get a real sense of her former life before the war. Be prepared for potentially strong currents on the surface, but usually, down on the wreck, it's pretty calm. Make sure your deco plan is solid, and you'll have a fantastic dive on a piece of genuine maritime history.

Location
Scottish East Coast & Borders, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
56.550750, -1.561500
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
56m

Marine Protected Area: Firth of Forth Banks Complex

Nearby Dive Sites in Scottish East Coast & Borders

Nearest Dive Centres to HMS ST BRIAC

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 maximum depth of the HMS ST BRIAC wreck dive?
The maximum depth of the HMS ST BRIAC wreck dive is 56 meters. This makes it a deep dive, suitable for divers with appropriate training and experience.
What kind of marine life and wreck features can divers expect to see on the HMS ST BRIAC?
The HMS ST BRIAC is a substantial wreck, measuring 96.3m in length and 12.5m in width, featuring four steam turbines and twin screws. Divers can explore the structure of this former Southern Railway Co. vessel, which was converted to an air target before its sinking in 1942. While specific marine life is not detailed in the provided information, wrecks often attract various species over time.
How challenging is the HMS ST BRIAC wreck dive, and is it suitable for advanced recreational divers?
The HMS ST BRIAC wreck dive is classified as intermediate difficulty. With a maximum depth of 56 meters, it is suitable for experienced recreational divers who possess the necessary deep diving certifications and training. Divers should be prepared for the challenges associated with deeper wreck diving.
What are the best months or seasons to dive the HMS ST BRIAC for optimal conditions?
The provided data does not specify the best months or seasons for diving the HMS ST BRIAC for optimal conditions. For general guidance on diving seasons in the Scottish East Coast & Borders, please consult our When to Dive section.
What diving certifications are required to safely dive the HMS ST BRIAC wreck?
Given the HMS ST BRIAC is an intermediate difficulty dive with a maximum depth of 56 meters, divers will require certifications appropriate for deep wreck diving. This typically includes advanced open water certification along with specialized deep diver and wreck diver training. Always ensure your certification level matches the demands of the dive.
What are the typical current conditions and visibility like at the HMS ST BRIAC dive site?
The provided data does not include specific information regarding the typical current conditions or visibility at the HMS ST BRIAC dive site. Divers planning to visit this Scottish East Coast & Borders wreck should consult local dive operators for the most up-to-date conditions.