Wreck of Emil - Scottish East Coast & Borders

The *Emil* sits upright, remarkably intact for a wreck of its age, a real treat off the Scottish East Coast. Descending onto her, you’re met with a ship still holding its form, not just a pile of scattered metal. We love picking out the details, like the deck winches still in place, almost ready to be used. The prop is always a favourite to explore, often home to a resident conger eel or two, their heads peeking out from the dark recesses. This isn’t a colourful coral dive, obviously, but the life here is hardy and fascinating. Plumose anemones cling in thick mats to the steel, swaying gently in the current, and you’ll find plenty of crabs scuttling over the plates. Visibility can be a bit of a gamble, but on a good day, when the sun penetrates the green water, the atmosphere is incredible. We’d suggest timing your dive for slack water; the currents here can be challenging, making penetration tricky. It’s definitely one for divers comfortable in colder water and with a keen interest in maritime history. You really feel the age of the sea when you’re down there, an old ship slowly being reclaimed.

Location

Scottish East Coast & Borders, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe

Coordinates

56.038290, -2.627529

Type

wreck

Marine Protected Area: Forth Islands