Ayr Bay Bonanza

The forecast for Saturday was good, and on the water the sun was out and only a ripple on the surface, it was perfect. The plan was to dive three wrecks between the Heads of Ayr and Troon.  Our first target for the day was a small wreck in 51 metres. Surveyed in 2019 it was reported to be around 20 long by 4 metres wide, possibly lying on its side. The wreck was soon found and shot deployed. Our initial descent was through clear water but this soon became hazy and plankton growth began to cut light levels down and reduce visibilty to around 2 metres on the mud seabed. We reeled off from the line and commenced our search. Unfortunately conditions did not permit stills photography but we found what we believe to be a timber planked vessel on timber frames, and the outer hull was sheathed in copper. A small piece of machinery was found which may have been a small steam engine, no bow, stern or propellor was observed. So we returned to the surface with some new information, local fishermen know this wreck as the Burnt Boat.

Target two was the wreck of the MV Glen Shiel which foundered in Ayr Bay on 29 June 1973. This wreck is shallower  and sits in seabed depths of 25 metres lying on its port side, bow facing south. Here are a few shots from our dive on the wreck, you can read about her loss by following this link Glen Shiel

Target three was the wreck of the SS Ahdeek which sank 1 mile west of Troon Harbour on 11 December 1898. The divers reported good visibility on the wreck which has a seabed depth of 24 metres. There is plenty to see including the twin boilers and steam engine, the wreck is ablaze with colour and sealife. We will be adding a page for this wreck in the near future.