Scottish West Coast, United Kingdom
    Western Gailes

    Wreck of Harald Haarfager

    Protected Area

    Western Gailes

    Why dive here

    With 112+ marine species recorded in the area - including blue whales, dolphins, dwarf minke whales, humpback whales and ocean sunfish (mola mola) - Wreck of Harald Haarfager offers some of Scottish West Coast's richest wreck diving.

    Marine lifeBlue Whales, Dolphins, Dwarf Minke Whales, Humpback Whales and Ocean Sunfish (Mola Mola) · 112+ species recorded
    CharacterWreck dive
    StandoutRich in charismatic marine life

    The Harald Haarfager isn't just a dive, it's a history lesson encased in cold Scottish water. We love a wreck with a story, and this old Norwegian ironclad, sunk in 1917, delivers. Dropping down, the sheer scale of her hits you first, a leviathan resting on the seabed. There’s a delicious gloom to this site, even on a bright day, amplifying the sense of discovery as you navigate her massive hull plates and superstructure. We’d suggest a good dive light to really pick out the details, because every inch is encrusted with anemones and dead man’s fingers, glowing in the beam. You’ll find plumose anemones swaying from every available surface, and we’ve often spotted conger eels peeking out from the darker recesses. Exploring the broken decks, you get a real feel for her past life, the torpedo damage still visible, a testament to the dangers of wartime seas. It’s a dive for those who appreciate maritime history and enjoy a challenging but rewarding exploration, especially when the current isn't too feisty.

    Safety Notes

    Wreck site - avoid penetration without wreck diving certification. Watch for sharp metal and entanglement hazards.

    Today06:4117:3110h 50m daylightGolden hour 16:41

    Nearest Dive Centres to Wreck of Harald Haarfager

    Dive shops near Wreck of Harald Haarfager

    View all dive centres in Scottish West Coast

    Reviews for Wreck of Harald Haarfager

    Sign in to write a review

    Conditions

    Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for Wreck of Harald Haarfager

    Plan & book

    Ways to dive Scottish West Coast, from day trips to liveaboards.

    Day trips & courses

    via GetYourGuide

    Guided dives, courses and snorkel trips with instant booking.

    Find dive trips in Scottish West Coast

    Places to stay

    via Booking.com

    Hotels and dive resorts near Scottish West Coast.

    Search stays in Scottish West Coast

    Dive insurance

    Most travel insurance excludes or limits scuba. Check what you need before you go.

    Dive insurance explained

    Partner links: we may earn a commission if you book, at no extra cost to you. How we make money

    Where to Stay near Wreck of Harald Haarfager

    Prices from Booking.com. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

    Back to Scottish West Coast