ETAL MANOR - South Coast

The *Etal Manor*, down at 55 metres, is our kind of wreck dive. It’s deep, sure, but the rewards are significant. She was a steamship, sunk by a U-boat in 1917, and now lies upright, largely intact, with her two boilers standing proud midship. Drop down and you’ll see her silhouette emerge from the gloom, a proper ship shape. The bow section is particularly good, often with conger eels peering from the deeper recesses. We love tracing the deck line, feeling the shift in temperature as you move around her, and exploring the holds. The triple expansion engine is still there, a testament to her past life, and a haven for squat lobsters and the occasional anglerfish. Visibility here can be temperamental, as is often the case off the South Coast, so pick your day carefully, ideally on a slack tide for the best experience. This is a dive for experienced wreck heads, those comfortable with deeper profiles and potentially strong currents, but the sense of history and the sheer scale of the wreck make it absolutely worth the effort.

Location
South Coast, Ireland, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
52.003433, -6.899281
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
55m

Marine Protected Area: Hook Head 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 ETAL MANOR

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 ETAL MANOR

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 scuba diving at Etal Manor?
The Etal Manor wreck is located at a significant depth of 55 meters. This makes it a deep dive, requiring appropriate training and experience. Divers can explore the fascinating remains of this steam ship vessel, which sank in 1917, at this challenging depth. For more details on this site, visit Etal Manor.
What kind of marine life and underwater topography can divers expect to see at Etal Manor?
At Etal Manor, divers will primarily encounter the impressive underwater topography of a large steam ship vessel, measuring 81.7m x 11.6m, which sank in 1917. This non-dangerous wreck serves as the main attraction. While specific marine life details are not provided, wrecks commonly become artificial reefs, attracting various species over time; you can learn more about common species in our wildlife database.
What is the difficulty level for diving at Etal Manor, suitable for beginners or advanced divers?
Diving at Etal Manor is classified as an intermediate difficulty level. Given its depth of 55 meters, this site is best suited for experienced divers with advanced certifications and specific training in deep diving. Beginners should gain substantial experience and further certifications before attempting this challenging wreck dive.
What is the best time of year to dive at Etal Manor for optimal conditions and marine encounters?
Information regarding the best time of year for optimal conditions and marine encounters at Etal Manor is not provided in the current data. For general guidance on diving seasons in Ireland, please consult our When to Dive section. Always check local dive conditions and forecasts before planning your trip to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Are there any specific diving certifications required to explore the Etal Manor dive site?
Given the intermediate difficulty and the considerable depth of 55 meters, divers exploring Etal Manor would typically require advanced diving certifications. This includes, at minimum, an Advanced Open Water Diver certification, and ideally a Deep Diver specialty. These certifications ensure divers possess the necessary skills and experience for such a demanding wreck dive.
What are the usual currents, visibility, and water temperatures experienced while diving at Etal Manor?
Specific data regarding the usual currents, visibility, and water temperatures experienced while diving at Etal Manor is not available in the provided context. Divers planning a trip to Ireland's South Coast should consult local dive operators for the most up-to-date conditions. Always be prepared for varying environmental factors when diving deep wrecks in this region.