HMS EMPIRE SPRUCE - Scottish West Coast

The HMS Empire Spruce, a tug sunk in 1943, sits upright and largely intact in just 19 metres of water, making it a fantastic dive for those looking to get a proper wreck experience without excessive depth or tricky currents. We love how much there is to explore here, even on a single dive. You can fin your way around the deck, peer into open doorways, and often spot conger eels tucked into dark corners. What makes this site really special is the way the cold Scottish water has preserved the structure, while also encouraging a beautiful growth of anemones and sponges. Visibility can be hit or miss, typical for the West Coast, but when it’s good, the light plays wonderfully through the superstructure. Our favourite is exploring the stern, where the prop shaft is still visible, often surrounded by curious wrasse. This wreck is perfect for divers comfortable with overhead environments and keen to spend some time exploring history, rather than just cruising over a reef. Just remember to bring a good torch; it gets moody inside.

Location
Scottish West Coast, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
56.008240, -4.787314
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
19m

Marine Protected Area: Inner Clyde Estuary

Nearby Dive Sites in Scottish West Coast

Nearest Dive Centres to HMS EMPIRE SPRUCE

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