NILS GORTHON - Scottish West Coast

The Nils Gorthon sits deep, at 48 metres, off the Scottish West Coast. She’s a proper expedition dive, a large steamship torpedoed in 1940. We love how intact she feels down there, not just a pile of plates. You can still make out her superstructure, and her triple-expansion engine is a real draw, a magnificent piece of industrial history now home to various crabs and lobsters. The visibility can be surprisingly good, especially on a settled day with an early dive, allowing her immense scale to really sink in. Exploring her decks, you’ll find sections carpeted in colourful jewel anemones, small pockets of vibrant life against the muted steel. This site is definitely for experienced divers comfortable with deep diving and colder conditions; the rewards are immense for those seeking a tangible piece of maritime history.

Location
Scottish West Coast, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
55.749832, -7.084333
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
48m

Marine Protected Area: Gruinart Flats, Islay

Nearby Dive Sites in Scottish West Coast

Nearest Dive Centres to NILS GORTHON

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 the Nils S wreck?
The NILS GORTHON wreck, located off the Scottish West Coast, has a typical depth of 48 meters. This makes it a deeper dive, suitable for divers with appropriate training and experience in such conditions.
What kind of marine life and underwater structures can divers expect to see at the Nils S artificial reef?
Divers exploring the NILS GORTHON wreck can expect to encounter the impressive structure of a steam ship vessel, measuring 82.3m x 12.5m. As a non-dangerous wreck, it provides a fascinating artificial reef environment, though specific marine life details are not provided in the available data.
Is the Nils S dive site considered challenging for recreational divers, or is it suitable for all levels?
The NILS GORTHON dive site is classified as having an intermediate difficulty, primarily due to its depth of 48 meters. While not suitable for absolute beginners, it offers a rewarding experience for recreational divers with appropriate training and experience in deeper wreck diving.
What is the best time of year to dive the Nils S for optimal visibility and calmest conditions?
Based on the provided data, specific information regarding the best time of year for optimal visibility and calmest conditions at the NILS GORTHON dive site is not available. Divers planning a trip to the Scottish West Coast should consult local dive operators for current conditions and refer to general when to dive resources.
What scuba diving certifications are recommended or required to dive the Nils S, especially considering its depth and status as a wreck?
Given the NILS GORTHON's depth of 48 meters and its classification as an intermediate wreck dive, advanced scuba diving certifications such as PADI Advanced Open Water Diver with a Deep Diver specialty, or equivalent, are highly recommended. Specialized wreck diving certifications would also be beneficial for safely exploring this historic steam ship.
What are the typical current conditions and visibility like at the Nils S dive site?
The provided data does not include specific details on the typical current conditions or visibility at the NILS GORTHON dive site. For up-to-date information on these factors, it is always best to consult local dive centers operating in the Scottish West Coast region.