HMS ASSURANCE - Scottish West Coast

The HMS Assurance isn't your typical pretty reef dive, but we love it for its raw, rugged character. This old tug, sunk in 1941, now lies sprawled across Bluick Rock in Loch Foyle, a testament to a rougher era. Diving here, you're not just seeing a wreck, you're feeling the bite of history, even if the chill of Scottish waters is a constant companion. What really makes the Assurance for us is how she’s been completely adopted by the local marine life. We've seen conger eels snaking through collapsed sections of the superstructure, their heads poking out from rusting plates. Expect a kaleidoscope of anenomes and dead man's fingers clinging to every surface, bright oranges and purples against the muted steel. Look out for the nudibranchs too; the cold water often brings out some stunning varieties. It’s a dive for those who appreciate the story beneath the waves, a bit of a challenge perhaps, but incredibly rewarding. She's broken up quite a bit, so you won't be penetrating huge sections, but there's plenty of interest in the debris field and the way the wreck has settled into the seabed.

Location
Scottish West Coast, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
55.216667, -6.937500
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
0m

Marine Protected Area: Magilligan Point

Nearby Dive Sites in Scottish West Coast

Nearest Dive Centres to HMS ASSURANCE

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 for diving the HMS Assurance wreck at The Needles?
The HMS Assurance wreck, located off the Scottish West Coast, has a listed depth of 0m in our records. Please note that this specific wreck is not associated with "The Needles" in the provided data. Divers should always consult local dive centers for the most accurate and up-to-date depth information for this dive site.
What kind of marine life and historical artifacts can divers expect to see on the HMS Assurance dive site?
The primary historical artifact at the HMS Assurance dive site is the wreck itself, a 47.9m x 10.1m tug vessel built in 1940 and sunk in 1941. While specific marine life is not detailed in our current data, divers can generally expect to encounter various local species common to Scottish West Coast wrecks. For more information on potential sightings, you might explore our wildlife database.
How challenging is the HMS Assurance dive site at The Needles, and is it suitable for all experience levels?
The HMS Assurance dive site is classified as intermediate difficulty. This suggests it is suitable for divers with some experience beyond entry-level certification, who are comfortable with wreck diving conditions. Please note that this specific wreck is located off the Scottish West Coast and is not associated with "The Needles" in our records.
What are the best conditions and times to dive the HMS Assurance wreck for optimal visibility and minimal currents?
Our current data for the HMS Assurance wreck does not specify optimal conditions or times for visibility and minimal currents. For the best diving experience, we recommend consulting local dive operators on the Scottish West Coast, as they can provide up-to-date information on local weather and tidal patterns. You can also visit our When to Dive section for general guidance.
What scuba diving certifications are typically recommended or required to dive the HMS Assurance Protected Wreck Site?
Given the HMS Assurance dive site's intermediate difficulty, divers are typically recommended to hold advanced open water certification or equivalent, with specialized wreck diving training being highly beneficial. Always check with local dive centers in the Scottish West Coast for their specific requirements and any necessary permits for diving this historic wreck.
What are the typical currents and underwater conditions like when diving the HMS Assurance at The Needles?
Our current data for the HMS Assurance wreck does not include specific details on typical currents or underwater conditions. As this wreck is located off the Scottish West Coast, not "The Needles," conditions can vary significantly. It is always best to consult with local dive operators for the most accurate and current information regarding site conditions before planning your dive.