wreck

Log This Dive

Wreck of Effie Bella

The Effie Bella isn't one of those wrecks that’s intact enough for much penetration, but we love her character on the seabed. She’s broken in places, sure, but that means plenty of nooks and crannies for life to hide in. Expect to see cod and pollock hanging around the main sections of the hull, and sometimes a cheeky conger eel peeking from a darkened pipe. We found the best light for photography usually mid-morning, provided the sun's actually out, which is never a guarantee in Scotland. The real draw here is the atmosphere. It’s cold water diving, so thick suits are a given, but there’s a quiet beauty to it. The wreck sits at a depth that suits most advanced open water divers, though some experience with colder conditions and boat diving helps. It’s a great site for those who appreciate history and how the sea reclaims things, rather than just chasing big pelagics. Keep an eye out for nudibranchs on the encrusted steelwork, a delicate contrast to the ship's sturdy remains. It’s a proper Scottish dive, honest and rewarding.