Wreck of Mary Joanna

Protected Area

South Shian and Balure

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 Mary Joanna 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 Mary Joanna, oh, she’s a proper moody beauty, sitting upright and defiant in the cool Scottish water. We love a wreck with a story you can almost feel, and this fishing trawler, sunk after a collision, absolutely delivers. Descending through the green, often moody light, you’ll find her mast still standing, a skeletal finger pointing skyward, now totally encrusted. Swim through the wheelhouse, imagining the last moments, before dropping into the holds where plump dogfish often snooze amongst the rusted winches. Our favourite is exploring the stern, where anemones bloom like underwater wildflowers, catching the particles on the gentle currents. It’s a site that feels wild and rugged, perfect for divers who appreciate history and the tough beauty of the North Atlantic. Visibility can swing dramatically, so pick a calm day with an incoming tide for the best chance of a clear view.