COUNSELLOR - South Coast

The *Counsellor* is a big girl, and we mean big. Lying in 35 metres, this steamship stretches a full 121 metres, which means even on a good day, you’ll barely touch a fraction of her. Built in Belfast in 1904, she went down in 1916 and now rests upright, largely intact, with her two huge boilers a real highlight. Descending onto the deck feels like dropping into a dark, submerged cathedral; the sheer scale of the ship is impressive. What we love about the *Counsellor* is the sense of history that hangs heavy around her. You’re not just looking at metal; you’re looking at a piece of wartime maritime drama. Shoals of pollock often swirl around the superstructure, and if you bring a good torch, you can peer into some of the darker recesses where conger eels have set up home. This is a dive for experienced wreck enthusiasts, those who appreciate a deep, dark dive with a story to tell. Visibility can be hit or miss, typical for Ireland, but when it’s good, the *Counsellor* reveals herself as one of the south coast’s standout wrecks. Just remember to watch your bottom time, 35 metres slips away fast.

Location
South Coast, Ireland, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
51.500330, -9.092333
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
35m

Marine Protected Area: Lough Hyne Nature Reserve and Environs SAC

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 COUNSELLOR

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 COUNSELLOR

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 the COUNSELLOR dive site?
The COUNSELLOR dive site, a fascinating steam ship wreck, is typically found at a depth of 35 meters. This makes it an ideal dive for those comfortable with deeper wreck exploration in the South Coast of Ireland.
What marine life and underwater topography can divers expect to see at the COUNSELLOR dive site?
The primary underwater topography at the COUNSELLOR dive site is the impressive steam ship wreck itself, measuring 121.9m x 14.8m. While specific marine life is not detailed in the provided information, wrecks often become artificial reefs, attracting various species over time. Divers can expect to explore the structure of this vessel, which sank on September 14, 1916.
How difficult is the COUNSELLOR dive site, and is it suitable for beginner or advanced divers?
The COUNSELLOR dive site is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive. With a depth of 35 meters and its classification as a "Dangerous wreck," it is best suited for experienced divers rather than beginners. Divers should possess appropriate training and comfort with deeper wreck environments.
What is the best time of year or season to dive at the COUNSELLOR dive site for optimal conditions?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year or season to dive at the COUNSELLOR dive site for optimal conditions. For general guidance on diving seasons in Ireland, you might consult a when-to-dive resource.
Are there any specific certifications required or highly recommended to dive at the COUNSELLOR dive site?
Given the COUNSELLOR dive site's intermediate difficulty, 35-meter depth, and classification as a "Dangerous wreck," certifications beyond Open Water Diver are highly recommended. Divers should ideally hold an Advanced Open Water certification and consider specialized wreck diving training to safely explore this historic steam ship.
What are the usual current conditions and visibility like at the COUNSELLOR dive site?
The provided data does not include specific information regarding the usual current conditions or visibility at the COUNSELLOR dive site. Divers planning to visit this wreck off the South Coast of Ireland should consult local dive operators for the most up-to-date conditions.