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The Wreck of the Darlington
 Bermuda
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Max Depth: 16-20ft/5-6m
Average Viz: 91-100ft/28-30m
Entry Type: Boat
Bottom Composition: Sand
Aquatic Life: Plenty To See
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Rating: 4.67 by 3 divers
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The Wreck of the Darlington is a boat accessible salt water dive site, located in Bermuda. This dive site has an average rating of 4.67 out of 5 from 3 scuba divers. The maximum depth is 16-20ft/5-6m. The average visibility is 91-100ft/28-30m.
1886 - English Steamer
The Darlington was a sturdy iron hulled steamer built in 1881, at the beginning of the age of steam driven ships. She was constructed at the Swan & Hunter Shipyard in Newcastle, England. She measured 285 feet in length, with a 36 foot beam and a hull displacement of 1,990 tons. The wrecking of this proud vessel was caused though negligence and inexperience. She was en route from New Orleans to Bremen, Germany whilst carrying a cargo of 5,152 bales of cotton and 15,00 bushels of grain. Her captain, Richard Ward, failed to assign a lookout while navigating in unfamiliar water.
On February 22, 1886, she crashed into Bermuda’s western reefs and could not be re-floated. The wreck lies in 30 feet of water, with her steam boilers, propeller shaft and deck winches still visible. All of the crew survived and were later transported back to New York aboard The Orinoco. Captain Ward was later found negligent by the Marine Board of Inquiry.
Divemasters Notes
The depth of this dive, makes for very long bottom times, but in the winter, extra lead should be worn for the added buoyancy of wet suits in shallow water. (Average depth 20 feet). She remains fairly well intact and you can see how the bow section became crushed by the reef due to the high speed impact. This site is typically dived during rough sea conditions as it’s location to the extreme west of the Islands puts the site in the only lee during prevailing winds. Although this seldom has any great impact upon visibility and in excess of 100 feet is not unusual.
Lots of subjects for photography, the most interesting feature are the rudder quadrant and propeller section, which are both encrusted with Fire Coral creating a stunning, brilliant red. Artifacts are still occasionally found, although the wreck is protected by Bermuda law from any salvaging. Her winch is the most readily recognisable element of the heavy damaged forward section. Two massive boiler come to within inches of the surface and are often exposed during low tide. Follow the propeller shaft for the entire length and find all points of interest including the hollow mast which has provided an excellent shelter for frequent Slipper Lobsters and massive Sea Hares.
Large schools of Snapper are often found around the bow section and the occasional pelagic is not unusual. The shallow depths in this area. (Immediately next to a Cardinal Marker!!) have not allowed fishing vessels access. Many requests have been made to destroy this wreck as it is claimed to be something of a navigational hazard. Fortunately these requests have to date been refused.
An additional point of interest is the remains of a very old sailing boat not far away although it is strongly advised that you not attempt to find it without a guide as currents can pick up without notice as you venture beyond the actual site.
REMEMBER.... THE REEF IS FRAGILE! PLEASE DO NOT TOUCH OR TREAD ON LIVING CORAL.