ECLIPSE (AND OTHER WRECKS) - Scottish West Coast

The Eclipse, and the other scattered wrecks around it, feels like a proper piece of history right there on the seabed. We love it because it’s so accessible, sitting in just 9 metres, meaning you get a really good bottom time to explore. The main draw is the wooden steamship, Eclipse, which ran aground back in 1854. You can still make out the ribs of the hull, some decking, and the large boiler is a definite focal point, encrusted with dead man’s fingers that pulse softly in the gentle surge. It’s not a dramatic upright wreck, more of a sprawling debris field, but that’s its charm. We’ve spent hours poking around the smaller, unidentified bits of wreckage nearby, wondering about their stories. Look closely and you’ll find plenty of squat lobsters tucked into crevices, and often a grumpy conger eel peering out from under a plate. Visibility here can be a bit variable; we’d suggest going on a calm day with a rising tide for the best light and less suspended sediment. It’s ideal for newer wreck divers or photographers wanting to practice their skills in benign conditions.

Location
Scottish West Coast, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
55.941025, -4.917848
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
9m

Marine Protected Area: Largs Coast Section

Nearby Dive Sites in Scottish West Coast

Nearest Dive Centres to ECLIPSE (AND OTHER WRECKS)

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 the ECLIPSE (AND OTHER WRECKS) dive site?
The ECLIPSE (AND OTHER WRECKS) dive site has a typical depth of 9 meters. This relatively shallow depth makes it accessible for many divers, offering a good opportunity to explore the wreck.
What kind of marine life and wreck features can divers expect to see at ECLIPSE (AND OTHER WRECKS)?
Divers exploring the ECLIPSE (AND OTHER WRECKS) can expect to encounter the remains of a 50m x 5m wooden steamship, built in 1849 and sunk in 1854. Key features include one boiler and a compound expansion engine. While specific marine life is not detailed, wrecks often become artificial reefs, attracting various local species which can be explored further in our wildlife database.
How challenging is diving at ECLIPSE (AND OTHER WRECKS) for recreational divers, especially regarding wreck penetration?
Diving the ECLIPSE (AND OTHER WRECKS) is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive. Given its classification as a "Dangerous wreck," any thoughts of wreck penetration should be approached with extreme caution and only by divers with specialized training and appropriate equipment. Recreational divers should prioritize safety and consider the inherent risks associated with such sites.
What is the best time of year to dive ECLIPSE (AND OTHER WRECKS), considering both general conditions and any unique events like a solar eclipse?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year to dive the ECLIPSE (AND OTHER WRECKS), nor does it mention any unique events like a solar eclipse relevant to diving conditions. However, the ship ran aground in calm, clear daylight conditions, suggesting that favorable weather is ideal for visiting this Scottish West Coast site. Divers should consult local conditions for optimal visibility and safety, and check our when to dive guide for general advice.
What scuba diving certifications are required or recommended to dive ECLIPSE (AND OTHER WRECKS), particularly for exploring inside the wrecks?
While the ECLIPSE (AND OTHER WRECKS) is rated as intermediate difficulty, its classification as a "Dangerous wreck" strongly implies that specialized training is essential for any form of wreck penetration. Divers should possess advanced certifications, such as wreck diving specialties, and be experienced in challenging conditions. Always dive within your training and comfort limits.
What are the typical current conditions and visibility like at the ECLIPSE (AND OTHER WRECKS) dive site?
The provided data indicates that the ECLIPSE ran aground in "calm, clear daylight conditions," which suggests that favorable conditions can occur in the area. However, specific typical current conditions and visibility for the ECLIPSE (AND OTHER WRECKS) dive site itself are not detailed. Divers should always check local dive reports for current conditions and visibility before planning their dive.