LIMELIGHT - Scottish West Coast

Limelight isn’t a deep dive, sitting at a comfortable 8 metres, but don’t let that fool you into thinking it’s a simple one. This motor vessel went down in 1961, and we find its age gives it a real character. She's broken up quite a bit over the years, not a perfect intact wreck, but that means plenty of interesting nooks and crannies to poke your head into. Visibility here can be a bit of a lottery, as it often is on the West Coast, so picking your day is key. We’d suggest aiming for slack tide, especially after a period of settled weather. When the light hits it right, you'll see the metal work draped in dead man's fingers, and if you look closely, plenty of squat lobsters tucked into the crevices. Our favourite part is navigating through the remaining hull plates, imagining the ship in her prime. It’s a dive that rewards slow exploration rather than speedy swim-throughs, perfect for those who love feeling the history around them.

Location
Scottish West Coast, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
55.618534, -6.195350
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
8m

Marine Protected Area: South-East Islay Skerries

Nearby Dive Sites in Scottish West Coast

Nearest Dive Centres to LIMELIGHT

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 diving at the Limelight dive site?
The Limelight dive site, a fascinating wreck located off the Scottish West Coast, has a typical depth of 8 meters. This relatively shallow depth makes it accessible for many divers, offering a great opportunity to explore the historical wreck.
What marine life and unique underwater features can divers expect to see at Limelight?
The primary underwater feature at Limelight is the wreck of a motor vessel, sunk on October 10, 1966. This 27.1m x 5.8m vessel, classified as a dangerous wreck, provides an intriguing structure to explore. While the provided data does not specify particular marine life, wrecks often attract various local species, making them vibrant artificial reefs.
How difficult is the Limelight dive site, and is it suitable for all certification levels?
The Limelight dive site is classified as having an intermediate difficulty. While its shallow depth of 8 meters is appealing, the "dangerous wreck" classification suggests it may not be suitable for absolute beginners or all certification levels without proper guidance and experience. Divers should ensure they have the appropriate skills for an intermediate wreck dive.
What is the best time of year or day to dive at Limelight for optimal conditions and visibility?
The provided data for the Limelight dive site does not specify the best time of year or day for optimal conditions and visibility. For general guidance on diving conditions in the United Kingdom, you might consult our When to Dive section. Local dive operators can also provide up-to-date information.
Are there any specific scuba diving certifications required to dive at the Limelight site?
Given that Limelight is classified as an intermediate dive site and a "dangerous wreck," it is highly recommended that divers possess certifications appropriate for wreck diving and intermediate conditions. While a specific certification isn't explicitly stated, advanced open water or wreck specialty certifications would be beneficial for safely exploring this site. Always dive within your training and experience limits.
What are the usual current strengths and water conditions experienced at the Limelight dive site?
The available data for the Limelight dive site does not include information on usual current strengths or specific water conditions. Divers planning to visit this Scottish West Coast wreck should consult local dive operators for up-to-date conditions before their dive. This will ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.