KARTLI - Scottish West Coast

The Kartli, a hulking stern trawler, isn't just a wreck; it’s a proper metal playground. She ran aground in a gale back in '91, and now sits almost upright, her bow nudging the shore. We love that you can dive this one at pretty much any tide, though slack water makes exploring the deeper sections a bit less work. Dropping onto her deck, you’re met with a riot of life. Anemones in every shade – orange, white, pink – cling to every surface, swaying gently in the surge. Schools of wrasse dart in and out of the broken superstructure, and if you’re patient, you might spot a territorial ballan wrasse eyeing you from a porthole. We’d suggest exploring the stern first, where the prop is still visible, encrusted with dead man's fingers. Penetration into the wheelhouse is straightforward for experienced wreckies, offering glimpses into a past life, though some of the interior has collapsed. It’s a great dive for photographers, especially when the sun filters through the shallow water, illuminating the vibrant colours that have colonised this steel behemoth. Just keep an eye on your depth here, it's easy to get absorbed.

Location
Scottish West Coast, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
55.703815, -5.748550
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
6m

Marine Protected Area: Sound of Gigha

Nearby Dive Sites in Scottish West Coast

Nearest Dive Centres to KARTLI

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 typical depth range for scuba diving at the Kartalia dive site?
The Kartli dive site offers a relatively shallow diving experience, with a typical depth of 6 meters. This makes it an accessible site for divers looking for a less demanding depth profile.
What kind of marine life and underwater formations can divers expect to see at Kartalia?
The Kartli dive site is primarily a wreck dive, featuring the remains of a fishing vessel that sank on December 19, 1991. Divers can explore the hull and superstructure of this 79.9m x 13.1m wreck, which often serves as an artificial reef. While specific marine life isn't detailed in the provided data, wrecks typically attract various local species over time, which you can learn more about in our wildlife database.
Is the Kartalia dive site suitable for beginner divers, or is it considered more challenging?
The Kartli dive site is classified as having an intermediate difficulty level. This means it is more suitable for divers who have some experience beyond entry-level certifications. It offers an engaging exploration for those comfortable with its conditions.
When is the best time of year to dive at Kartalia for optimal conditions and visibility?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year to dive at the Kartli dive site for optimal conditions or visibility. For general guidance on seasonal diving in the Scottish West Coast, you might consult our When to Dive section. Local dive operators can also provide up-to-date seasonal insights.
What diving certifications are required to dive at Kartalia?
The provided data does not specify particular diving certifications required for the Kartli dive site. Given its intermediate difficulty, divers should possess at least an Open Water certification and ideally some experience with wreck diving or similar conditions. Always check with local dive operators in the Scottish West Coast for their specific requirements.
What are the typical current conditions and visibility like at the Kartalia dive site?
The available data for the Kartli dive site does not include details on typical current conditions or visibility. These factors can vary greatly and are often influenced by local weather and tides in the Scottish West Coast. It's always best to consult with local dive centers for up-to-date information before planning your dive.