COSSACK - Scottish West Coast

The Cossack is one of those wrecks we keep coming back to on the Scottish West Coast. She’s small, only about 20 metres long, but what she lacks in size she makes up for in character. Sunk in 1923, she’s been down there long enough for the sea to really start reclaiming her. We find her at relatively shallow depths, meaning you can get a good, long poke around without rushing a deco stop. Drop down and you're immediately struck by how intact the hull remains, considering her age. Her single boiler is prominent, a big, round sentinel covered in anemones and dead man's fingers. Our favourite part is nosing around the engine room, where the compound expansion engine is still recognisable. Ling often hide in the darker recesses, and we’ve seen some surprisingly large velvet swimming crabs scuttling across the plates. The visibility here can be excellent on a calm day, giving you that classic Scottish green glow. It’s a great site for photographers who enjoy the moody atmosphere of an old steamer, and for wreck divers who appreciate a relatively complete, historical structure over just a debris field.

Location
Scottish West Coast, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
55.645218, -6.083778
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
0m

Marine Protected Area: South-East Islay Skerries

Nearby Dive Sites in Scottish West Coast

Nearest Dive Centres to COSSACK

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 the COSSACK dive site?
The COSSACK dive site is noted for a depth of 0m, indicating it is an extremely shallow dive or even accessible from the surface. This makes it a unique site for exploring a historical wreck in very accessible waters.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at COSSACK?
Divers at the COSSACK dive site can expect to explore the remains of a historical steam ship vessel. The wreck, sunk on June 13, 1923, features a boiler and a compound expansion engine, with dimensions of 20.1m x 5.5m. It is classified as a wreck showing any portion of its hull or superstructure.
How difficult is the COSSACK dive site, and is it suitable for beginner divers?
The COSSACK dive site is classified as having an intermediate difficulty. While not suitable for absolute beginners, divers with some experience can enjoy exploring this historical wreck.
What is the best time of year to dive at COSSACK for optimal conditions and visibility?
The provided data for the COSSACK dive site does not specify the best time of year for optimal diving conditions or visibility. For general guidance on diving in the region, you might consult our When to Dive section.
Are there any specific diving certifications required to dive at the COSSACK site?
The available data for the COSSACK dive site does not specify any particular diving certifications required. Given its intermediate difficulty, a certification beyond entry-level, such as Advanced Open Water, is generally recommended for such sites.
What are the typical currents and water conditions like at the COSSACK dive site?
Information regarding typical currents and specific water conditions at the COSSACK dive site is not detailed in the provided data. Divers should always check local conditions and forecasts before planning their dive.