CARRONADE
Protected Area
Southannan Sands
Why dive here
With 112+ marine species recorded in the area - including blue whales, dolphins, dwarf minke whales, humpback whales and ocean sunfish (mola mola) - CARRONADE offers some of Scottish West Coast's richest wreck diving.
The Carronade isn't one of those massive warships that demand multiple dives; she's a smaller yacht, about 13.7 metres, but she packs a punch with character. Sunk in '84 while under tow, she sits upright at a very manageable 20 metres, making her a great option for newer wreck divers or those looking for a relaxed second dive. We love that you can really take your time here, exploring her modest structure without feeling rushed by depth limits. What makes her stand out for us is the way she's become a miniature ecosystem. Her wooden hull is draped in dead man's fingers and colourful anemones, almost completely obscuring her original lines. We’ve spotted everything from curious wrasse darting in and out of her collapsed cabins to tiny nudibranchs inching across her decks. It’s a wonderful contrast to the often starker metal wrecks you find in the area. Our favourite moment is finning over her bow, seeing the anchor chain still leading off into the gloom, hinting at her dramatic end. Visibility can vary here, as with much of the Scottish West Coast, so aim for a slack tide and a calm day to truly appreciate the invertebrate life. If you’re into macro photography or just enjoy intimate wreck encounters, the Carronade is a fantastic pick.
Typical CARRONADE Dive Profile
Illustrative profile based on site depth and type. Actual dive profiles vary - always follow your dive computer and training.
Safety Notes
Depth of 20m - Advanced Open Water certification recommended.
Wreck site - avoid penetration without wreck diving certification. Watch for sharp metal and entanglement hazards.
Always perform a 3-minute safety stop at 5m before surfacing.
CARRONADE Wreck History
Year Sunk
1984
Vessel Type
yacht
Cause
foundered
The story of the Carronade is a short and unfortunate one. In August 1984, the 13.7-meter yacht ran into trouble off the rugged west coast of Scotland. A pilot cutter was dispatched to assist the vessel, taking it under tow in an attempt to bring it to safety. However, the rescue effort was unsuccessful, and the Carronade was lost, sinking beneath the waves.
Resting at a depth of 20 meters, the Carronade is an accessible and intriguing dive for recreational divers. As a relatively modern wreck, it offers a different experience from the historic cargo ships that litter the Scottish coast. Depending on how it landed and the subsequent storms, the yacht could be fairly intact or broken apart. Its 'Dangerous Wreck' classification suggests potential hazards like snagged lines or rigging, so careful dive planning is essential. Divers can explore the small vessel, now a home for local marine life like crabs, lobsters, and various fish species.
Nearest Dive Centres to CARRONADE
Dive shops near CARRONADE
Field Studies Council Millport
C&C MARINE SERVICES
Just Dive In CIC
Splashsports Services
Scuba Diving Scotland
Reviews for CARRONADE
Conditions
Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for CARRONADE
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