Wreck of Colonial Empire - Scottish West Coast

Diving the *Colonial Empire* is less about bright colours and more about the stark beauty of a ship reclaimed by the sea. She was a steam trawler, sunk in 1917, now resting upright and largely intact, a real testament to her robust build. We love how the dark, cold water preserves her, giving a sense of really stepping back in time. Expect to feel that chill bite as you descend, but the reward is worth it. The deck is carpeted in dead man’s fingers, white and ghostly against the ship’s dark steel, and look for conger eels peering from every dark opening. Our favourite is the engine room, surprisingly open and penetrable, where you can still make out the massive machinery. Visibility can be a bit hit or miss, typical for the West Coast, so pick a calm day with neap tides for your best chance. This wreck is a proper adventure, perfect for divers who appreciate history and the quiet, dramatic beauty of temperate wrecks.

Location
Scottish West Coast, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
55.786785, -6.507510
Type
wreck

Marine Protected Area: Bridgend Flats, Islay

Nearby Dive Sites in Scottish West Coast

Nearest Dive Centres to Wreck of Colonial Empire

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