DivePlnr
    DARK ISLAND dive site
    wreck
    2m
    South Coast, Ireland
    Tramore Backstrand

    DARK ISLAND

    Good diving all year

    Protected Area

    Tramore Backstrand

    Why dive here

    With 185+ marine species recorded in the area - including blue sharks, dolphins, dwarf minke whales, humpback whales and ocean sunfish (mola mola) - DARK ISLAND offers some of South Coast's richest wreck diving. Water ranges 9-15°C, warmest July, August, September.

    Best timeYear-round
    WetsuitA drysuit
    Marine lifeBlue Sharks, Dolphins, Dwarf Minke Whales, Humpback Whales and Ocean Sunfish (Mola Mola) · 185+ species recorded
    Water9-15°C · warmest July, August, September
    CharacterWreck dive · max 2m
    StandoutExceptional marine biodiversity

    Dark Island isn’t a deep dive, barely two metres, but it’s one of our favourite wreck dives on the South Coast for its sheer accessibility and surprising character. The fishing vessel, sunk back in ‘87, lies in such shallow water that you can practically reach down from the boat to touch it on a calm day. We love how the light plays on the deckhouse, often dappled by sunlight filtering through the kelp forest that has grown up around it. You’ll spend your time exploring the 10-metre hull, noting the way various crabs scuttle into crevices and the occasional pollack peeking from what used to be the engine room. It’s an ideal spot for macro photography, with nudibranchs often found grazing on the growth, and we always suggest going at high tide for the best visibility and a chance to truly float above the wreck. This site suits anyone looking for a relaxed dive, a chance to appreciate a piece of local history, and an excellent introduction to wreck diving without the pressure of depth.

    Typical DARK ISLAND Dive Profile

    Safety Stop0m2m max~60 min estimated bottom time

    Illustrative profile based on site depth and type. Actual dive profiles vary - always follow your dive computer and training.

    Safety Notes

    Wreck site - avoid penetration without wreck diving certification. Watch for sharp metal and entanglement hazards.

    Cold water this month (avg 14°C). Drysuit or thick wetsuit (7mm+) recommended.

    Today06:4617:4510h 59m daylightGolden hour 16:59

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    Conditions

    Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for DARK ISLAND

    DARK ISLAND Ocean Conditions

    Monthly averages for DARK ISLAND, sourced from Open-Meteo marine data - nearest station: Open-Meteo marine grid (51.71, -8.38) (9km away)

    ExcellentGreatGoodFairPoor★Best monthsThis month

    October Averages

    Sea Temperature

    14°C

    57°F · Range: 12.3–14.8°C

    Air Temperature

    12°C

    54°F

    Wind Speed

    7.84 m/s

    15.2 knots

    Atmospheric Pressure

    1008.6 hPa

    Based on 4 years of monitoring data · Data sources: Open-Meteo marine data

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