Wreck of Iola

Protected Area

St Andrews - Craig Hartle

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 Iola 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 Iola, a trawler that went down in 1960, lies off the East Coast and for us, it's one of those dives that feels properly Scottish. It's not a dive for the faint of heart, or for someone looking for sun-drenched reefs, but it offers a real sense of adventure. We've often found a fair bit of current here, so check the tides carefully before you jump in. What makes the Iola special is how much of it remains intact, despite the decades it's spent on the seabed. You can still make out the engine room, the winches, and even a good chunk of the wheelhouse. We love heading into the cargo hold, which is now a fantastic shelter for squat lobsters and the occasional conger eel. The wreck itself is covered in dead man's fingers and anemones, bringing a surprising splash of colour to the gloom. It’s a dive for those who appreciate history and the rugged beauty of a well-preserved wreck, attracting curious seals too if you're lucky.