BELFAST - Scottish West Coast

The Belfast is a proper piece of history, resting upright and largely intact on the seabed. We love the scale of this wreck; 81 metres of iron steamship from 1870, now a dark, imposing silhouette against the grey Scottish light. Descending onto her deck, you can almost hear the echoes of her past, a passage steamer gone down in 1895. For divers who appreciate a substantial wreck with clear features, this is a real treat. You can trace her length, exploring her two massive boilers – always a highlight for us – and the impressive compound expansion engine. The superstructure, while time-worn, still offers plenty of scope for exploration, with gaps and doorways inviting a cautious peek inside. What really brings the Belfast to life are the resident inhabitants: conger eels poke their heads from every crevice, while colourful anemones and dead man’s fingers cling to the iron plates, a soft, vibrant contrast to the stark metal. Visibility here can be variable, as is typical for the west coast, so we’d suggest aiming for a calm spell and mid-tide for the best chance of a clear view. It's a dive that rewards slow exploration and a good torch, unveiling new details on every pass.

Location
Scottish West Coast, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
56.238190, -6.461801
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
0m

Wreck History - BELFAST

Year Sunk
1895
Vessel Type
cargo ship
Cause
grounding

The Belfast was an iron-hulled steamship built in 1870, originally sailing under the name Cargago Nova. Owned by T Dixon & Sons at the time of her loss, she met her end on the Scottish West Coast on March 23, 1895. Lying at a depth of 0 meters, the vessel was a total loss after running aground, where the relentless action of waves and weather has since broken her apart. Today, the remains of the Belfast are scattered across the intertidal zone, offering a unique opportunity for exploration. This isn't a traditional scuba dive, but rather a site for snorkelers and beachcombers at low tide. Searching the shallows reveals plates, ribs, and other fragments of this 19th-century steamer, a fascinating historical puzzle waiting to be pieced together by those who walk the shoreline.

Marine Protected Area: Ardalanish Bay

Nearby Dive Sites in Scottish West Coast

Nearest Dive Centres to BELFAST

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 are the typical depths for scuba diving sites in Belfast and the surrounding loughs?
The historic wreck of the Belfast, a steam ship, is noted at a depth of 0m. This specific data point suggests the wreck is either exposed or in extremely shallow water, making it accessible for various surface and underwater activities.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see when diving in Belfast Lough or nearby areas?
Divers exploring the Belfast wreck can expect to encounter the remains of a substantial iron steam ship. This vessel, built in 1870, features two boilers, a compound expansion engine, and visible portions of its hull and superstructure, offering a fascinating historical dive.
How challenging are the dive sites around Belfast, and are there options for different skill levels?
The dive site for the Belfast wreck is classified as intermediate difficulty. While this specific site is suitable for divers with some experience, information on other dive sites around Belfast for varying skill levels is not provided in the current data.
What is the best time of year to go scuba diving in Belfast for optimal conditions and marine encounters?
Information regarding the best time of year for optimal diving conditions or marine encounters in Belfast is not available in the provided data. For general guidance on seasonal diving, please refer to our When to Dive resource.
What scuba diving certifications are required to dive in Belfast and the local Northern Ireland dive sites?
Specific scuba diving certification requirements for diving in Belfast and local Northern Ireland dive sites are not detailed in the provided data. Divers should always ensure they hold appropriate certifications for the planned dive activities and conditions.
What are the usual water conditions, visibility, and currents like for scuba diving in Belfast Lough?
Details on the usual water conditions, visibility, and currents for scuba diving in Belfast Lough are not available in the current data context. Always consult local dive operators for up-to-date conditions before planning your dive.