Wreck of Richard Thomson

Protected Area

Crossapol and Gunna

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 Richard Thomson 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 *Richard Thomson* wreck isn't about tropical colours. It's about history, cold water, and the way the sea reclaims things. We love how atmospheric this dive is, especially when the light is a bit muted and the kelp sways with the surge. You drop onto the stern, which is still largely intact, then move forward along the deck where the bow sits higher. It’s a proper ship, not just scattered debris, and you can really get a sense of its original form. The real draw here, for us, is the sheer number of wrasse darting in and out of the plating, and the anemones that have absolutely plastered every available surface. Look closely in the darker corners and you’ll often spot velvet crabs scuttling away. We’d suggest going at slack water; the currents can pick up here and make navigating the interior a bit of a workout. It’s a dive for those who appreciate wrecks with a story, and aren’t afraid of a bit of chill.