50m
    Scottish East Coast & Borders, United Kingdom
    Isle of May

    MALLARD

    Protected Area

    Isle of May

    Why dive here

    With 112+ marine species recorded in the area - including dolphins, dwarf minke whales, humpback whales, ocean sunfish (mola mola) and orcas - MALLARD offers some of Scottish East Coast & Borders's richest wreck diving.

    Marine lifeDolphins, Dwarf Minke Whales, Humpback Whales, Ocean Sunfish (Mola Mola) and Orcas · 112+ species recorded
    CharacterWreck dive · max 50m
    StandoutRich in charismatic marine life

    The Mallard. Now this is a proper Scottish wreck dive, and one we always enjoy for its sheer character. Dropping down to 50 metres, you hit the bow first, then the whole 38-metre steamship stretches out before you, remarkably intact for a vessel sunk back in 1921. We love how the bow is still so clearly defined, especially the anchor chains running out into the gloom. Visibility here can be a bit of a lottery, as it often is in the North Sea, but on a good day, the dark, silty water just adds to the atmosphere. You can spend a good chunk of your bottom time exploring the deck and the intact boiler, which is absolutely covered in dead man's fingers. It’s a great spot for advanced divers comfortable with deeper wrecks and the colder water. Keep an eye out for wrasse darting in and out of the plating and the occasional inquisitive ling peeking from the shadows. Our favourite part? Finning over the stern, imagining the storm that brought her down on her passage from Dysart to Aberdeen. It’s a real slice of maritime history, not just a pile of metal.

    Typical MALLARD Dive Profile

    15m30m45mSafety Stop0m50m max~15 min estimated bottom time

    Illustrative profile based on site depth and type. Actual dive profiles vary - always follow your dive computer and training.

    Safety Notes

    Maximum depth 50m exceeds recreational limits (40m). Technical diving certification and equipment required.

    Wreck site - avoid penetration without wreck diving certification. Watch for sharp metal and entanglement hazards.

    Always perform a 3-minute safety stop at 5m before surfacing.

    Today06:3317:2110h 48m daylightGolden hour 16:30

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