World class wreck diving

Looking for the best wreck diving in the world? The UK’s coastline offers some of the most accessible, historic and exciting wreck dives you’ll find anywhere — right here in the UK.

As a proud island nation with a rich maritime past, the UK has thousands of shipwrecks resting just offshore. These include warships, merchant vessels, steamers, submarines, and tankers — all waiting to be explored by scuba divers. Some date back to the Bronze Age (900 BC), while others are the remnants of two world wars.

From dramatic deep-water wrecks to shallow, beginner-friendly sites, there’s something for every level of diver. Whether you’re interested in maritime history, marine life, or the thrill of discovery, UK wreck diving delivers unforgettable underwater experiences.

Why the UK is a top destination for wreck diving:

• Rich maritime history – Thousands of wrecks from centuries of naval activity, conflict, and commerce

• Diverse dive sites – From Cornwall to the Orkneys, explore wrecks in varied conditions and depths

• Thriving marine ecosystems – Shipwrecks act as artificial reefs, attracting fish, crustaceans and colourful sea life

• Learn and progress with BSAC – Join a club or training centre to improve your wreck diving skills and dive safely

Start your wreck diving journey with BSAC

Whether you’re a beginner or a qualified diver looking to specialise in wreck diving, BSAC can help you get started.

With expert training, local knowledge, and a nationwide network of clubs, BSAC is your gateway to the best wreck diving in the UK.

Enquire now

Photo by Bob Anderson

Windows into history

Every wreck is a window into the past, offering a tangible link to the people, voyages, and stories that shaped our maritime history.

Take the Spanish Armada, for example. When several Spanish galleons from the ill-fated 1588 fleet were discovered off Ireland and Scotland, recovered artefacts revealed new insights into King Philip II’s planned invasion of England. These wrecks don’t just hold treasure — they hold answers.

And while no wreck remains pristine, that’s part of the beauty. Over time, shipwrecks transform into living reefs, attracting coral, crustaceans and schools of fish. They become sanctuaries — vibrant, biodiverse ecosystems hidden beneath the surface.

A shipwreck is never just twisted metal. It’s a story: of how a vessel was built, who sailed her, and what happened on her final voyage.

Photo by Steve Jones

HMS Audacious, the first British Battleship to be sunk in World War 1. Super-Dreadnought class. Lies at 65 metres depth. 

Iconic UK wrecks to dive

We’re lucky in the UK to have access to some of the most famous shipwrecks in the world:

• M2 – A unique submarine aircraft carrier

• Tabarka – A blockship that sank twice

• Royal Charter – An ironclad steam clipper lost with gold aboard

• SS Salsette – A record-breaking P&O liner and Blue Riband winner

• LST-507 & LST-531 – D-Day training wrecks off Slapton Sands, lost during Operation Tige

Learn to dive wrecks with BSAC

Wreck diving is special. As a BSAC member, you’ll gain the skills and knowledge to dive wrecks safely and independently — including chart reading, dive planning, boat handling and knot tying.

Whether you’re looking for wreck diver training, a community of fellow explorers, or support to plan your own UK wreck adventures, we’re here to help.