Scottish East Coast & Borders, United Kingdom
    Forth Islands

    Wreck of Charles

    Protected Area

    Forth Islands

    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 Charles 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

    The Wreck of Charles isn’t some tropical postcard dive, and that’s precisely why we love it. This is proper, moody UK diving, usually found after a fair bit of boat ride, and often with a bit of a chill in the air. Dropping onto the Charles, the first thing you notice is how intact she is, especially for a wreck that’s seen its share of North Sea weather. We've spent hours exploring the various compartments, pushing through doorways, imagining her sailing days. What really makes the Charles a standout, though, isn't just the history, but the way marine life has utterly embraced it. Ling perch in shadowy doorways, their long bodies almost part of the wreck itself. We often find wolfish tucked into crevices, their grumpy faces peering out, and we've even spotted conger eels snaking through the deeper sections. Visibility can be a bit variable, so pick a calm day if you can, and always go with a guide who knows the site well; there are a few snags for the unwary. It's a dive for those who appreciate history and don’t mind a bit of a challenge, well worth the effort for a glimpse into the past.

    Safety Notes

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

    Today06:3417:2310h 49m daylightGolden hour 16:31

    Nearest Dive Centres to Wreck of Charles

    Dive shops near Wreck of Charles

    View all dive centres in Scottish East Coast & Borders

    Reviews for Wreck of Charles

    Sign in to write a review

    Conditions

    Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for Wreck of Charles

    Plan & book

    Ways to dive Scottish East Coast & Borders, from day trips to liveaboards.

    Day trips & courses

    via GetYourGuide

    Guided dives, courses and snorkel trips with instant booking.

    Find dive trips in Scottish East Coast & Borders

    Places to stay

    via Booking.com

    Hotels and dive resorts near Scottish East Coast & Borders.

    Search stays in Scottish East Coast & Borders

    Dive insurance

    Most travel insurance excludes or limits scuba. Check what you need before you go.

    Dive insurance explained

    Partner links: we may earn a commission if you book, at no extra cost to you. How we make money

    Where to Stay near Wreck of Charles

    Prices from Booking.com. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

    Back to Scottish East Coast & Borders