GAELIC - Scottish West Coast

The Gaelic, an old iron barquentine with a history stretching back to 1898, sits in about 25 metres on Scotland’s west coast. She’s a proper piece of history, serving as a Q-ship in WW1, which just adds to her appeal. We love how much of her structure remains, especially the bow and stern, despite the collision that sank her in 1952. You can still see where those twin motors, fitted in 1916, would have been. Visibility here can be hit or miss, typical for the west coast, but when it’s good, the Gaelic is fantastic. Even in murkier conditions, her size, 38.4m long, means there's always something to bump into. The wreck is well broken but distinct, and the resident conger eels are usually out, peeking from every crevice. We've also spotted plenty of wrasse darting through the plates, and the anemones that have colonised the ironwork add a surprising splash of colour against the dim light filtering down. This is a great dive for anyone who appreciates a bit of maritime history and isn’t afraid of a proper Scottish wreck dive.

Location
Scottish West Coast, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
55.255554, -7.820833
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
25m

Nearby Dive Sites in Scottish West Coast

Nearest Dive Centres to GAELIC

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 divers can expect at the SV Gaelic Wreck dive site?
The maximum depth divers can expect at the SV Gaelic Wreck is 25 meters. This makes it a suitable dive for those comfortable with moderate depths.
What marine life and wreck remnants are typically seen when diving the SV Gaelic Wreck?
The SV Gaelic Wreck is the remnant of an auxiliary ship vessel, built in 1898 as an iron barquentine. Divers can explore its structure, which served as a Q ship during WW1 and later had twin motors fitted in 1916. The wreck measures 38.4m x 7.3m, offering a substantial structure to explore.
What is the recommended diving experience level or difficulty for the SV Gaelic Wreck?
The recommended diving experience level for the SV Gaelic Wreck is intermediate. This classification suggests that divers should have some experience beyond entry-level certifications to safely and enjoyably explore this site.
When is the best time to dive the SV Gaelic Wreck, considering both season and tidal conditions?
Unfortunately, the provided data does not specify the best time to dive the SV Gaelic Wreck, nor does it detail seasonal or tidal conditions. For optimal planning, we recommend consulting local dive operators in the Scottish West Coast region. You can also visit our When to Dive section for general guidance.
Are there any specific scuba diving certifications or licenses required to dive the SV Gaelic Wreck?
While specific certifications are not explicitly listed in the data for the SV Gaelic Wreck, its intermediate difficulty and 25m depth suggest that an Advanced Open Water Diver certification or equivalent would be highly beneficial. Always ensure you are adequately trained and experienced for the conditions you may encounter.
What are the typical current conditions and average visibility at the SV Gaelic Wreck?
The provided data does not include information regarding typical current conditions or average visibility at the SV Gaelic Wreck. Divers planning a trip should consult local dive centers in the Scottish West Coast for up-to-date reports on these conditions.