ELLIDA - Scottish West Coast

The Ellida is a wonderfully broken-up wreck, scattered across the seabed at a forgiving 15 metres. We love how the wreck isn't intact; it’s more a series of fascinating archaeological fragments, inviting you to piece together its story in your mind. You’ll spend your dive exploring sections of hull, ribs, and scattered timbers, all colonised by the usual suspects of the Clyde: dead man's fingers, colourful anemones, and the occasional inquisitive wrasse. It’s a site that rewards a slow pace and a keen eye, perfect for anyone who enjoys a bit of history with their dive, or those newer to wreck diving thanks to the shallow depth and usually calm conditions. We've often found ourselves tracing the outline of what must have been the bow, imagining the fog that brought her down back in 1890. It's not a grand wreck, but it's genuinely atmospheric.

Location
Scottish West Coast, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
55.556908, -5.086141
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
15m

Marine Protected Area: Clauchlands Point - Corrygills

Nearby Dive Sites in Scottish West Coast

Nearest Dive Centres to ELLIDA

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 maximum depth of the ELLIDA dive site and what are the depths of its key features?
The ELLIDA dive site has a maximum depth of 15m. As a distributed wreck spanning 37m x 9m, its various remains are found at or near this depth. Divers can explore the scattered components of this historic barque vessel.
What kind of marine life and wreck features can divers expect to see when exploring the ELLIDA wreck?
When exploring the ELLIDA, divers can expect to see the distributed remains of a 37m x 9m barque vessel. This historic wreck, which sank in 1890, offers a fascinating glimpse into maritime history with its scattered components. While specific marine life is not detailed in the provided data, wrecks often attract local species.
What is the required certification level and overall difficulty for diving the ELLIDA wreck, especially for wreck penetration?
The ELLIDA dive site is classified as intermediate difficulty. Given that it is described as "distributed remains of wreck," extensive wreck penetration is unlikely or not feasible. Any form of wreck penetration would typically require specialized training and certifications beyond standard recreational diving.
What is the best time of year to dive the ELLIDA wreck for optimal conditions and marine life sightings?
The provided data for the ELLIDA wreck does not specify the best time of year for optimal diving conditions or marine life sightings. For general guidance on diving in the Scottish West Coast, it's advisable to consult local dive operators or resources on when to dive in the region.
Are there any specific certifications or experience levels needed to dive the ELLIDA, beyond standard open water?
Diving the ELLIDA is rated as intermediate difficulty. This typically suggests that divers should possess experience beyond basic open water certification, such as an Advanced Open Water Diver certification or equivalent, to comfortably and safely navigate the site. Familiarity with wreck diving techniques, even for distributed sites, is also beneficial.
What are the typical visibility, water temperature, and current conditions at the ELLIDA dive site?
The provided data for the ELLIDA dive site does not include information on typical visibility, water temperature, or current conditions. Divers planning a trip to the Scottish West Coast should consult local dive centers for up-to-date environmental conditions.