Scuba diving around the Farne Islands is an unforgettable experience, offering a unique combination of rich marine life and striking underwater landscapes. The islands are famous for being home to one of the largest colonies of grey seals in the UK. And while I had hoped for a close encounter, I only caught a glimpse of one from a distance before it darted away into the murky depths. But even that fleeting sight added a thrill to the dive, hopefully hinting at the potential for closer interactions in the future.
Beneath the surface, the rocky seabed and kelp forests are teeming with life. The rock is covered in sea urchins and dead man’s fingers coral. Vibrant blue Lobsters stand guard under ledges, and crabs scuttle for cover in and out of cracks and crevices, while wrasse of varying colours patrol the shallows. I spotted a large cod hidden further down, most of its body obscured by the rocks.
The water temperature, however, is not for the faint hearted. At just 13 degrees, it was chilly even with a combination of a 5mm and a 2mm wetsuit. After each dive, my fingers were numb and teeth chattering, making it clear that a thicker hood and gloves, and even a drysuit would be a worthwhile investment for my future dives.
Despite the cold, I had an absolutely amazing time. I have wanted to take up scuba diving ever since I was little and getting to finally do that with a group of seasoned enthusiasts at iDive has been fantastic. I can’t wait for the next one!
