NORDALE - Scottish West Coast

The Nordale, a trawler resting at 19 metres, is one of our favourite Scottish wrecks for sheer atmosphere. Sunk in 1942, she’s become a dark, brooding home for the local critters. We love dropping onto her deck, the outline of the vessel still very much intact despite the years. The main draw here is the engine room, surprisingly accessible if you’re comfortable with overheads. You can fin your way through, torch beam picking out the colossal boiler and the triple expansion engine, now draped in dead man’s fingers and hydroids. Visibility can be hit or miss, typical of the West Coast, but when it's good, you’ll see conger eels peering from every nook and cranny. Keep an eye out for enormous velvet crabs scuttling across the deck plates. We'd suggest diving this one on a slack tide to fully appreciate the details and to make those engine room explorations a little easier. It’s a cracker for anyone who enjoys a bit of history with their dive, and a great site for honing your wreck skills without too much depth.

Location
Scottish West Coast, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
55.288880, -5.731037
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
19m

Marine Protected Area: Sanda Islands

Nearby Dive Sites in Scottish West Coast

Nearest Dive Centres to NORDALE

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 diving depths at Nordale, and what is the maximum depth recreational divers can reach?
The typical diving depth at the Nordale wreck is 19 meters. This depth is well within the limits for most recreational divers, making it an accessible site for exploring the sunken trawler.
What unique marine life and underwater features, such as deep-sea corals or specific fish, can divers expect to see at Nordale?
At Nordale, divers can explore the fascinating underwater features of a sunken trawler vessel, measuring 33.2m x 6.5m. The wreck, which includes a boiler and triple expansion engine, serves as the main attraction. Specific details regarding unique marine life like deep-sea corals or particular fish species are not provided in the current site information.
How challenging is diving at Nordale, considering factors like water temperature and overall dive conditions?
Diving at Nordale is classified as intermediate difficulty, making it suitable for divers with some experience. It is also noted as a "Dangerous wreck," which implies additional considerations for safety and planning. While specific water temperature data is not provided, divers should be prepared for conditions typical of the Scottish West Coast.
What is the best time of year to dive Nordale for optimal visibility and encounters with marine life?
Information regarding the best time of year to dive Nordale for optimal visibility or marine life encounters is not currently available in the site data. For general guidance on diving seasons in the region, you might consult our When to Dive section.
Are there any specific scuba diving certifications required or highly recommended for diving Nordale, especially for deeper or more advanced sites?
Given that Nordale is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive and a "Dangerous wreck," it is highly recommended that divers possess at least an Advanced Open Water certification or equivalent experience. While the maximum depth is 19 meters, suitable for recreational limits, the wreck's classification suggests the need for advanced skills in wreck diving or hazard awareness.
What are the typical current conditions and water visibility like at Nordale, and how do they impact dives?
Details regarding the typical current conditions and water visibility at Nordale are not provided in the current site information. Divers planning a trip should consult local dive operators for the most up-to-date conditions before diving this Scottish West Coast wreck.