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Avid divers have voted The Arabia as one of the best diving wrecks in Fathom Five National Marine Park. It is an advanced dive, and so will be out of our diving range for a while, but having heard such rave reviews about this wreck, we just had to include it! The Arabia has an interesting history. She used to sail the Atlantic ocean, between Tobermory and Ile of Mull (Scotland) in the late 1800s, when Tobermory was a major port of call. She had her first "brush with a watery grave" back in 1183 when she actually ran aground onto Flower Pot Island but was repaired and put back out to sea. Although, just a year later, she was caught in a terrible storm and ran ashore once again, this time onto Echo Island. The crew unloaded onto lifeboats and were saved by a tug boat. The Arabia was dragged back into the sea and sank to the bottom, still close to Echo Island. This is a very well preserved wreck and is said to be one of the most interesting and detailed dives in Fathom Five. Of course, at 113 feet, it is also a very dangerous dive that requires a lot of experience to enjoy. Fourteen divers have died at this site since the remains of the Arabia were discovered in 1971. It is very important that all safety procedures be followed and that you don't underestimate this dive as there are strong currents, upredictable visibility and extremely cold water. Some divers have been known to get overly nervous, due to the accidents on-site and have had difficulty with their equipment or have forgotten their training in the heat of the moment. Of course, keeping a level head and ignoring any superstitious tendencies will make this dive what it is, a challenging and interesting experience. |
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Though the mid-section of the ship is covered with debris and is in fairly bad shape aside from a rising middle board, the rest of the wreck is in marvelous condition, especially the bow. The bowsprit still faces forward, the masts can be found not too far from the wreck or lying across her, and the anchors are still in position aboard the ship. To the starboard side, you'll find the wheel still intact. All in all, many divers have named the Arabia as one of their favourite dives and have returned to explore her once again. |
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