Mark Owens reports on Bingham SAC’ s awe-inspiring expedition to the remote island group of St Kilda
UKDIVING
More than a dive trip
Mark Owens reports on Bingham SAC’ s awe-inspiring expedition to the remote island group of St Kilda
PHOTO: MARK OWENS
In a recent expedition that combined the thrill of scuba diving with the rich tapestry of history, a group of divers from Bingham Sub Aqua Club embarked on a memorable journey to St Kilda, a remote archipelago located west of the Scottish mainland. Organised by Expedition Officer Keith Wignall, the trip not only allowed divers to explore the vibrant marine environment, but also deepened their appreciation for the poignant history surrounding this UNESCO World Heritage site.
We were travelling on board the Clasina, a large steel-hulled trawler converted for diving expeditions in 2020, owned and operated by Halton Charters. We journeyed to St Kilda, some 110 miles from the Scottish mainland and 40 miles west of North Uist. The islands are just as breath-taking above the water line as the underwater vistas awaiting our dive team. Renowned for dramatic cliffs, lush wildlife, and a remote community that finally abandoned the islands in 1930, St Kilda offers a diving experience that is both unique and awe-inspiring. With its nutrient-rich waters known for exceptional visibility, our divers encountered a dazzling array of marine life, including playful seals, inquisitive dolphins, and vibrant kelp forests teeming with fish.
On our journey to St Kilda, we anchored at the Isle of Harris, which offered a brief yet delightful pause before our crossing to the archipelago. We seized the moment to unwind with a few drinks at the local hotel, eagerly anticipating the next leg of our voyage.
Dive sites
The expedition covered a variety of dive sites, including the iconic Dun and Village Bay, where divers had the opportunity to explore underwater caves and canyons that add an exciting dimension to diving. However, it wasn’ t just the marine life that captivated our divers. The team took time to explore the remnants of the abandoned village on Hirta, the main island, where the poignant history of the island community came alive. Once home to a thriving population, the island’ s evacuation in 1930 sparked a deeper understanding of human resilience and the connection to nature.
“ Each dive site was like entering a new world,” said diver Dan Vaughan.“ From Stac Lee to Whale Rock, the underwater landscapes were incredibly diverse. Colourful soft corals and swaying kelp surrounded us, each dive revealing more of the beauty that lies beneath the surface.”
“ Being able to connect with the history of St Kilda while experiencing the incredible marine environment was incredibly powerful,” said team member Jill Mellink. The visit brought home the importance of preserving both our natural and cultural heritage.”
" Every dive in remote locations requires contingency plans and a strong focus on safety "
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PHOTO: JEN SMITH