Wreck of Gareloch

Protected Area

Outer Firth of Forth and St Andrews Bay Complex

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 Gareloch 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 Gareloch isn't about tropical colours. This is a proper Scottish wreck dive, dark and moody, where the real show is the structure itself, draped in the cold, green light of the North Sea. We love picking our way through the collapsed deck plating, imagining the old steamship's final moments. It's a fantastic spot for macro photography, too; look closely and you'll find nudibranchs clinging to the metal, and the occasional inquisitive wrasse peeking out from a twisted beam. Our favourite part is the engine room, a cavernous space that feels like a submarine's interior. We'd suggest timing your dive for slack water, as currents can be frisky, especially around the exposed bow. The visibility here can vary wildly, from a pea-souper to a surprisingly clear 10 metres, but even on murkier days, the wreck’s imposing silhouette is impressive. This site suits divers who appreciate history, enjoy a bit of overhead environment exploration, and don't mind a chillier dip for a genuinely rewarding wreck.