ELI (POSSIBLY) - Scottish West Coast

The *Eli* offers a proper deep wreck adventure on the Scottish West Coast. We love how intact she is for a ship bombed in 1940; you can still make out her lines, the stern rising proudly from the seabed at 58 metres. Descending, you feel the water cool, a palpable shift in the light as you approach this behemoth resting on its port side. The visibility here can be tricky, often a silty green, but when it clears, the scale of her 116-metre length is striking. We’ve found wolfish sheltering in the deeper holds and wrasse picking around the machinery spaces. Our favourite moment is always finning past the enormous propeller, still fixed on its shaft, a silent testament to her final voyage. This dive demands good trim and a cool head, perfect for experienced technical divers seeking a meaningful wreck dive rather than a colourful reef.

Location
Scottish West Coast, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
56.119835, -6.730834
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
58m

Marine Protected Area: West Colonsay Seabird Cliffs

Nearby Dive Sites in Scottish West Coast

Nearest Dive Centres to ELI (POSSIBLY)

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 maximum depth for recreational divers at the Elly oil rig dive site?
The dive site you are referring to is the ELI wreck, not an oil rig, located off the Scottish West Coast. The typical maximum depth for this wreck is 58 meters. This depth classifies it as an intermediate dive, requiring appropriate training and experience.
What kind of marine life and underwater structures can divers expect to see when diving the Elly oil rig?
When diving the ELI wreck, which is a motor vessel, divers can expect to explore its substantial underwater structure, measuring 116.1m x 16.5m. This non-dangerous wreck, sunk in 1940, offers a fascinating historical dive. Specific details regarding marine life at this particular site are not available in the current data, but you can learn more about general marine species in our wildlife database.
How difficult is diving the Elly oil rig, and is it suitable for all experience levels?
Diving the ELI wreck, located off the Scottish West Coast, is classified as intermediate difficulty. This indicates it is not suitable for all experience levels, especially beginners. Divers should possess adequate training and experience for dives to 58 meters and wreck diving.
What are the best times of year or specific conditions recommended for diving the Elly oil rig?
Specific information regarding the best times of year or recommended conditions for diving the ELI wreck is not available in the provided data. For general guidance on dive planning, you can visit our when to dive section. Always check with local dive centers for current conditions before planning your dive.
What scuba diving certifications are required or highly recommended for diving the Elly oil rig?
Given the 58-meter depth and intermediate difficulty of the ELI wreck, certifications beyond Open Water Diver are highly recommended. Divers should possess qualifications such as Advanced Open Water Diver, Deep Diver, and potentially Wreck Diver specialties to safely explore this site. These certifications ensure you have the necessary training for deep wreck diving.
What are the common current conditions and expected visibility at the Elly oil rig dive site?
The provided data for the ELI wreck does not include specific information regarding common current conditions or expected visibility at the dive site. It is always advisable to consult with local dive centers or guides on the Scottish West Coast for the most up-to-date environmental conditions before planning your dive.