HMS PRINCE PHILLIPE - Scottish West Coast

Diving the HMS Prince Phillipe on the Scottish West Coast, you’re not just exploring a sunken ship, you’re touching a piece of wartime history. This old Belgian motor vessel, sunk in 1941, sits upright at 55 metres, largely intact. We love how the cold, clear Scottish water preserves these wrecks; it’s like a time capsule down there. When we drop in, the sheer scale of her is always impressive. At nearly 100 metres long, there’s plenty to explore. The bridge section is particularly atmospheric, often swarming with schools of pollack that swirl around the superstructure, making the visibility feel even more dynamic. Look out for the resident conger eels, they’ve made homes in the deeper crevices and engine room access points. We always suggest bringing a good torch, not just for penetration, but to really bring out the colours on the encrusting anemones and dead man’s fingers that blanket the metalwork. This dive suits experienced wreck divers comfortable with depth and colder conditions. Surface support is essential, and often a bit of a journey out, but the reward is a truly engaging dive on a significant, well-preserved wreck.

Location
Scottish West Coast, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
55.060307, -5.344694
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
55m

Marine Protected Area: Corsewall Point to Milleur Point

Nearby Dive Sites in Scottish West Coast

Nearest Dive Centres to HMS PRINCE PHILLIPE

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 HMS Prince of Wales dive site?
The HMS PRINCE PHILLIPE dive site has a maximum depth of 55 meters. This deep wreck offers an exciting challenge for divers exploring the Scottish West Coast.
What kind of marine life and wreck features can divers expect to see on the HMS Prince of Wales?
The HMS PRINCE PHILLIPE is a significant wreck feature, measuring 99.7 meters in length and 14.9 meters in width. Divers can explore this motor vessel, which was sunk on July 15, 1941, and is classified as a non-dangerous wreck. While specific marine life details are not provided, wrecks often attract diverse ecosystems.
How challenging is the HMS Prince of Wales as a dive site, and is it suitable for amateur divers?
The HMS PRINCE PHILLIPE is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive site. Due to its depth of 55 meters and intermediate rating, it is generally not suitable for amateur divers who lack advanced training and experience in deep or wreck diving. Divers should ensure they have the appropriate equipment and certifications for such conditions.
What is the best time of year to dive the HMS Prince of Wales for optimal conditions?
The provided data for the HMS PRINCE PHILLIPE does not specify the best time of year for optimal diving conditions. For general guidance on seasonal diving, you may consult our When to Dive section.
What diving certifications are typically required to dive the deep wreck of the HMS Prince of Wales?
Given the HMS PRINCE PHILLIPE is a deep wreck at 55 meters and rated as intermediate difficulty, divers would typically require advanced certifications. This includes specialties such as Deep Diver and Wreck Diver, ensuring you are prepared for the challenges of exploring such a site. Always dive within your training limits and with appropriate equipment.
What are the typical current conditions and visibility like at the HMS Prince of Wales dive site?
The provided data for the HMS PRINCE PHILLIPE does not include specific details on typical current conditions or visibility. Divers planning to visit this Scottish West Coast wreck should consult local dive operators for up-to-date site conditions.