ANWOTH - Scottish West Coast

Anwoth isn't just another trawler; she’s a proper piece of history, grounded right off Sanda near Sheep Island. You dive her right where she came to rest, a grand old girl built in 1915, now well and truly settled into the seabed. We love how accessible she is, mostly broken up but with enough structure remaining to give you a real sense of her past. The bow and stern are the most intact sections, offering great swim-throughs if the visibility is playing ball. You'll often find conger eels peering out from gaps, and the metalwork is blanketed in plumose anemones, swaying gently with the surge. Our favourite part is exploring the engine room remains – it’s a tangible link to the crew who once worked her. This site is fantastic for divers who appreciate a wreck with a story, especially those who enjoy close-up inspection of marine life colonising historical remains. Just be mindful of the currents around Sanda; slack water is always your friend here.

Location
Scottish West Coast, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
55.294160, -5.574393
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
0m

Wreck History - ANWOTH

Year Sunk
1935
Vessel Type
fishing vessel
Cause
grounding
Tonnage
215 GRT

The Anwoth was a steam trawler built in Leith in 1915, spending two decades working the fishing grounds of the North Sea. Her career came to an abrupt end on a stormy day in January 1935. While battling rough seas off the Scottish west coast, the vessel ran hard aground near Sheep Island, Sanda, at the mouth of the Firth of Clyde. A dramatic rescue ensued, and all six crew members were safely brought ashore. The Anwoth, however, was battered by the relentless waves and was soon declared a total loss.

Lying at a depth of 0 metres, the remains of the Anwoth are scattered and broken in the intertidal zone. This is not a dive site in the traditional sense, but rather a piece of local maritime history visible to kayakers, snorkelers, and beachcombers at low tide. The wreckage serves as a stark reminder of the power of the sea and the dangers faced by fishermen in these unforgiving waters.

Marine Protected Area: Sanda Islands

Nearby Dive Sites in Scottish West Coast

Nearest Dive Centres to ANWOTH

Marine Life in Scottish West Coast

Home to 127 recorded species including 50 reef fish, 15 whales & dolphins, 10 seagrass & algae, 9 sharks & rays, 8 other, 7 crabs & lobsters.

Notable Species

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical depth range for diving at Anwoth?
The Anwoth wreck is notably shallow, with a listed depth of 0m. This indicates that portions of the wreck are likely at or near the surface, making it accessible even at very low tides. Divers can expect to explore the remains of this 34m x 6.7m trawler in extremely shallow conditions.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at Anwoth?
At the Anwoth dive site, divers will primarily encounter the remains of a 34m x 6.7m trawler vessel. This historical wreck, built in 1915, is classified as a wreck showing any portion of its hull or superstructure. While specific marine life is not detailed in the available data, the wreck itself provides a fascinating underwater feature to explore.
How challenging are the diving conditions at Anwoth, and is it suitable for beginners?
The diving conditions at Anwoth are rated as intermediate difficulty. This suggests that while not extremely challenging, it may not be ideal for absolute beginners. Divers should possess some experience and comfort in varying conditions before attempting this wreck dive.
What is the best time of year to dive at Anwoth for optimal visibility and conditions?
The provided data for the Anwoth dive site does not specify the best time of year for optimal visibility or diving conditions. For general guidance on seasonal diving in the Scottish West Coast, you may consult broader resources. We recommend checking local dive reports for current conditions.
Are there any specific diving certifications required to dive at Anwoth?
While the data does not specify particular certifications required for the Anwoth dive site, its intermediate difficulty rating suggests that divers should hold at least an Open Water certification and ideally have some experience. It is always prudent to consult with local dive operators regarding any specific requirements or recommendations for this site.
What are the typical currents and water conditions like at the Anwoth dive site?
The provided information for the Anwoth dive site does not detail typical currents or specific water conditions. As an intermediate difficulty wreck dive on the Scottish West Coast, divers should anticipate varying conditions typical of coastal environments. Always check local forecasts and consult with dive professionals before planning your dive.