Wreck of Pladda

Protected Area

Kilminning Coast

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 Pladda 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 Pladda, a cargo steamer that went down in 1930, feels like a proper piece of history resting on the seabed. We love this wreck not just for its story, but for how surprisingly intact it remains. Descending, you’ll first pick out the stern, surprisingly upright, before the bow comes into view, lying on its starboard side. The real joy here is exploring the holds, which are often home to inquisitive conger eels, their heads poking out from shadowy corners. Keep an eye out for nudibranchs too, often grazing on the metalwork. This site suits divers who appreciate a wreck with real character and aren't afraid of a bit of chill. Visibility can be hit or miss, as you’d expect from Scottish waters, but on a good day, the light filtering through the superstructure is genuinely atmospheric. We’d suggest timing your dive for slack water; the currents here can be robust, making exploration much trickier if you get it wrong. The Pladda offers a rewarding dive, a true glimpse into a bygone era beneath the waves.