MONA - Scottish West Coast

Diving the *Mona* on Scotland’s west coast feels like stepping into a well-preserved piece of maritime history. This steamship, once the *Margaret* before its 1908 sinking, sits at a comfortable 23 metres. It’s a good-sized wreck at 48.8 metres long, with its single boiler and compound engine still distinct. We’ve found plenty of life making a home here – large wrasse cruise the decks, and the nooks and crannies hold squat lobsters and crabs. It’s a solid dive for anyone keen on wreck exploration without extreme depths, offering a relaxed look at an older vessel.

Location
Scottish West Coast, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
55.996666, -6.362500
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
23m

Marine Protected Area: Oronsay and South Colonsay

Nearby Dive Sites in Scottish West Coast

Nearest Dive Centres to MONA

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 are the typical dive depths and types of underwater topography at Mona Island?
The dive site MONA, located off the Scottish West Coast, features a maximum depth of 23 meters. Divers will explore the fascinating underwater topography of a wreck - specifically, the steam ship vessel MONA, which is 48.8m long and 7.3m wide. This non-dangerous wreck, sunk in 1908, offers a unique historical diving experience.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at Mona Island?
While specific marine life details are not provided for the MONA dive site, divers can expect to explore significant underwater features. The primary feature is the wreck of the steam ship vessel MONA, formerly named EX-MARGARET, which was built in 1878 and sank in 1908. This impressive wreck, measuring 48.8m x 7.3m, includes a boiler and compound expansion engine, offering a rich historical exploration.
How challenging is diving at Mona Island, and is it suitable for beginner divers?
Diving at the MONA dive site is classified as intermediate difficulty. Due to this rating, it is generally not recommended for absolute beginner divers. Divers should possess adequate experience and training suitable for intermediate wreck diving conditions to safely enjoy this site.
What is the best time of year to dive at Mona Island for optimal conditions and marine encounters?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year to dive at the MONA site for optimal conditions or marine encounters. For general guidance on seasonal diving in the United Kingdom, please consult our When to Dive section. We recommend checking local dive operator information for current conditions before planning your trip.
What scuba diving certifications are required or recommended for diving at Mona Island?
While specific certification requirements are not explicitly listed, given the MONA dive site is classified as intermediate difficulty and is a wreck dive, divers should hold certifications appropriate for such conditions. This typically includes advanced open water certification and potentially a wreck diving specialty certification. It is always best to consult with a local dive center for their specific recommendations.
What are the typical water conditions, currents, and visibility like when diving Mona Island?
The provided data does not include specific details regarding typical water conditions, currents, or visibility for the MONA dive site. Divers planning a trip to the Scottish West Coast should anticipate variable conditions common to temperate waters. We advise checking with local dive operators for up-to-date information on current conditions before diving.