Wreck of Alexander Cochrane

Protected Area

Imperial Dock Lock, Leith

Why dive here

With 112+ marine species recorded in the area - including dolphins, dwarf minke whales, humpback whales, ocean sunfish (mola mola) and orcas - Wreck of Alexander Cochrane 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

StandoutRich in charismatic marine life

Diving the Alexander Cochrane is a proper adventure, a real taste of North Sea wreck diving. We've always found it a bit thrilling, dropping down onto that dark shape knowing a bit of history lies beneath. The wreck itself isn't intact, more a scatter of ribs and plates, but that's part of its charm. You’ll be navigating a metal garden, with everything encrusted in an incredible variety of jewel anemones, nudibranchs, and often a grumpy wolfish peering out from under a plate. We love exploring the deeper sections, where the light fades even more and you start seeing bigger conger eels. It’s a site that rewards multiple dives. Each time we go, we notice something new – a different part of the engine, or a clump of dead man's fingers we missed before. It suits divers who appreciate historical context and don't mind a bit of a current. Visibility can be a bit variable, but even on murkier days, the sheer density of life makes it a fascinating dive. Keep an eye on the tide for the easiest descent.