Wreck of Dunstaffnage

Protected Area

Cove

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 Dunstaffnage 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 *Dunstaffnage* isn’t just another bit of twisted metal on the seabed. She’s a proper steamer, upright and largely intact, which is always a bonus when you’re hunting wrecks in these parts. Dropping down, you’ll first hit her bow, often shrouded in a thick coat of plumose anemones, their white tentacles swaying gently in the current. We love how the deck planks are still visible in places, giving you a real sense of walking her decks, albeit underwater. Look for the engine room, it’s a great penetration for experienced wreckies, with pipes and gauges still recognisable. Visibility here can be a bit of a lottery, as it often is in Scotland, but on a good day, when the sun filters through the green water, the atmosphere is incredible. Schools of saithe often hang off her stern, darting into the shadows as you approach. We’d suggest timing your dive for slack water; the currents can pick up surprisingly quickly, making it a bit of a workout otherwise. This wreck is our pick for divers who appreciate history and don't mind a bit of a chill; she rewards careful exploration.