U 74
Protected Area
Barns Ness Coast
Why dive here
With 112+ marine species recorded in the area - including dolphins, dwarf minke whales, humpback whales, ocean sunfish (mola mola) and orcas - U 74 offers some of Scottish East Coast & Borders's richest wreck diving.
The U 74, a German minelaying submarine, sits at 39 meters off the Scottish East Coast, a sombre reminder of World War One. She’s largely intact, listing slightly to port, with her hull covered in a thick carpet of plumose anemones and dead man’s fingers. We often find conger eels peering from the torpedo tubes, and sometimes a curious grey seal will pop in for a quick inspection. The U 74 isn't for the faint-hearted – the depth and potential for strong currents make this one for experienced cold-water wreck divers, but the history and the sheer scale of the boat are captivating.
Typical U 74 Dive Profile
Illustrative profile based on site depth and type. Actual dive profiles vary - always follow your dive computer and training.
Safety Notes
Deep dive (39m) - monitor air consumption closely. Advanced certification recommended.
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.
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Conditions
Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for U 74
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