ROTHA - Scottish East Coast & Borders

The Rotha is a proper old steamship, sunk way back in 1902, sitting upright at 42 metres. She’s definitely one for the experienced wreck divers who appreciate a bit of history and don't mind the chillier North Sea. We’ve found her to be quite intact, with the triple-expansion engine and single boiler still quite prominent, making for some good exploration if you’re comfortable with the depth and potential for low visibility. Look out for the iron propeller too – it’s a nice feature. While we haven't logged specific species here, the general rule for these older wrecks in Scottish waters is that you’ll usually spot wrasse, pollack, and sometimes a ling lurking in the shadows, making themselves at home among the structure.

Location
Scottish East Coast & Borders, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
54.970917, -1.273517
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
42m

Marine Protected Area: Tynemouth to Seaton Sluice

Nearby Dive Sites in Scottish East Coast & Borders

Nearest Dive Centres to ROTHA

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 depths encountered when diving at ROTHA, from shallow reefs to deeper areas?
The ROTHA wreck is found at a depth of 42 meters. This makes it a deeper dive, suitable for those comfortable with such depths and trained for advanced wreck exploration.
What kind of marine life and underwater topography can divers expect to see at ROTHA?
Divers at ROTHA will explore the remains of a steam ship vessel, built in 1893 and sunk in 1902. The site features a 67.1m x 9.5m wreck, including its one boiler, triple expansion engine, and iron propeller. While specific marine life isn't detailed, wrecks often become artificial reefs attracting various species over time.
How challenging is diving at ROTHA, and is it suitable for beginner or advanced divers?
Diving at ROTHA is classified as intermediate difficulty. With a depth of 42 meters, it is best suited for divers with experience beyond entry-level certifications who are comfortable with deeper wreck diving.
What is the best time of year to dive at ROTHA for optimal conditions and marine life sightings?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year for diving at ROTHA or optimal conditions. We recommend checking local dive operator reports for seasonal variations and conditions to plan your dive effectively. For general information, you can visit our When to dive guide.
Are there any specific diving certifications required or recommended to explore ROTHA?
Given the intermediate difficulty and 42-meter depth of the ROTHA wreck, advanced certifications such as Deep Diver or equivalent are highly recommended. These certifications ensure you have the necessary training and experience for deeper wreck explorations safely.
What are the usual current conditions and visibility like at ROTHA?
The available data does not provide specific details on the usual current conditions or visibility at ROTHA. Divers should consult with local dive centers in the Scottish East Coast & Borders for the most up-to-date information before planning their dive.