Wreck of Variag

Protected Area

Girvan to Ballantrae Coast Section

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 Variag 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 Variag, an old Russian cruiser, sits in fairly exposed waters off the Scottish west coast. We’ve always found this dive to be a real atmospheric one, even if the visibility isn't always perfect. The ship itself is heavily salvaged, but the sheer size of the hull plates and scattered machinery makes for a fascinating rummage, especially for those who love a bit of history with their diving. What really makes the Variag stand out for us is the way the cold water marine life has embraced the wreckage. You'll find huge plumose anemones clinging to every surface, swaying gently in the surge, and the nooks and crannies are home to some surprisingly large conger eels. We've often spotted inquisitive wrasse weaving through the collapsed decks and schools of saithe darting through the superstructure. It's a proper adventure dive, best suited for experienced cold-water divers comfortable with variable conditions and a bit of current. Our pick for exploring the deeper sections is definitely on a slack tide, otherwise you’ll be working for it.