The waters between Ballycastle and Rathlin Island on the North Coast are home to the wreck of the HMS Drake, an armoured cruiser launched in the early 1900s.  Refitted in 1914 for World War I escort duties, the Drake had just completed escorting a convoy from America on October 2nd, 1917, when it arrived near Rathlin Island.  Lying in wait in the dark waters was a German U-boat. A torpedo struck the Drake’s starboard side, killing several crew members.  Captain Radcliffe realised repairs in Belfast were impossible and the Drake sank in Church Bay.  Over time, it became a popular diving site.

In this film by Bertie McCullough, the Ulster Sub Aqua Club explores the wreck. Remarkable underwater footage reveals the remnants of the Drake, with fish swimming through rusted chain links and divers navigating its remains.

 Filmed by Bertie McCullough