AUD - South Coast

The AUD, originally named Libeau then Castro, has rested at 39 meters off the South Coast since 1916. It's a proper steamship, 76 meters long, with that classic triple-expansion engine outline still visible in places. We’ve found plenty of lobsters tucked into its deeper sections, and conger eels are pretty common around the more intact holds. The structure itself is breaking down in spots, which means you need to be careful, but it also creates some interesting swim-throughs and plenty of shelter for smaller fish. This is one for divers comfortable with deeper wrecks and who appreciate a bit of history.

Location
South Coast, Ireland, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
51.711334, -8.240383
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
39m

Marine Protected Area: Sovereign Islands NHA

Best Time to Dive in South Coast

The warmest water temperatures in South Coast occur in January, averaging 8.8°C. The coolest conditions are in December at 8.8°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 8.8°C (air: 7.0°C)
  • February: 8.8°C (air: 8.3°C)
  • March: 8.8°C (air: 8.1°C)
  • April: 8.8°C (air: 9.3°C)
  • May: 8.8°C (air: 11.8°C)
  • June: 8.8°C (air: 14.2°C)
  • July: 8.8°C (air: 15.6°C)
  • August: 8.8°C (air: 15.8°C)
  • September: 8.8°C (air: 14.6°C)
  • October: 8.8°C (air: 12.4°C)
  • November: 8.8°C (air: 9.9°C)
  • December: 8.8°C (air: 8.1°C)

Nearby Dive Sites in South Coast

Nearest Dive Centres to AUD

Marine Life in South Coast

Home to 199 recorded species including 97 reef fish, 24 sharks & rays, 14 whales & dolphins, 14 other, 10 crabs & lobsters, 10 seagrass & algae.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for AUD

Based on average water temperature of 8.8°C.

  • Drysuit - water at 9°C demands a drysuit with thermal undergarments
  • Hood & Gloves (7mm+) - critical to prevent heat loss
  • Mask - essential for every dive
  • Fins
  • BCD - buoyancy compensator
  • Regulator - your most safety-critical piece of gear
  • Dive Computer - tracks depth, time, and NDL
  • Surface Marker Buoy (SMB) - essential for boat pickups
  • Dive Torch - useful for crevices and colour at depth
  • Underwater Camera - capture your diving memories

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical depth range for diving at Au Au Crater?
The AUD dive site features a maximum depth of 39m. This depth makes it suitable for divers who are comfortable with deeper wreck explorations.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at Au Au Crater?
Divers exploring the AUD wreck will encounter the impressive remains of a 76.2m x 10.7m steam ship vessel. This historic wreck, sunk on April 21, 1916, serves as the primary underwater feature for exploration.
How challenging is the Au Au Crater dive site, and what level of experience is recommended?
The AUD dive site is classified as an intermediate difficulty wreck dive. Due to its designation as a dangerous wreck, divers should possess appropriate experience and training for such challenging environments.
When is the best time of day or year to dive Au Au Crater for optimal conditions?
Information regarding the best time of day or year for optimal diving conditions at the AUD wreck is not available in the current data. We recommend checking with local dive operators in Ireland's South Coast for up-to-date conditions.
What dive certifications are required to dive at Au Au Crater?
Given the AUD wreck's depth of 39m and its intermediate difficulty, divers should hold certifications appropriate for deep wreck diving. Typically, an Advanced Open Water Diver certification or a Deep Diver specialty is recommended for dives of this nature.
What are the typical current conditions and visibility like at Au Au Crater?
Details regarding typical current conditions and visibility at the AUD wreck are not provided in the available data. Divers should consult local dive centers in Ireland's South Coast for the most current site conditions before planning their dive.