GHAZEE - South Coast

There’s something about a shipwreck that calls to us, and the Ghazee, off Ireland’s south coast, is a prime example. This isn't some deep, dark mystery wreck. No, the Ghazee is special because of its shallowness, maxing out at 5m. It’s perfect for a long, relaxed dive, allowing you to really take in the scale of this 118-metre steamship. We love how the light plays on the structure, especially on a sunny day. You can see the distinct outlines of the two massive boilers, still sitting proud, and imagine the triple expansion engine that once powered her. The wreck acts like a big, artificial reef, attracting all sorts of local life. Look for crabs scuttling amongst the plates and various small fish darting in and out of the nooks and crannies. It’s a photographer’s dream, particularly with that natural light. We'd suggest timing your dive for slack water, just to make poking around the remains of the superstructure a bit easier, though currents here are generally pretty mild. For divers who appreciate history and enjoy a leisurely exploration without the pressure of depth, the Ghazee is a fantastic choice.

Location
South Coast, Ireland, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
51.500330, -8.972889
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
5m

Marine Protected Area: Clonakilty Bay SPA

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 GHAZEE

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 GHAZEE

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 average depth for diving at the Ghazi dive site?
The Ghazi dive site offers a reported depth of 5 meters, making it a relatively shallow and accessible wreck dive. You can learn more about this fascinating site on its dedicated Ghazi dive site page.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at Ghazi?
At the Ghazi dive site, divers will primarily encounter the impressive underwater features of a steam ship vessel, sunk on February 4, 1917. This substantial wreck, measuring 118.9m x 15.8m, serves as an artificial reef, potentially attracting various local marine species, though specific marine life is not detailed in the provided information. For general information on marine life, visit our wildlife database.
Is the Ghazi dive site considered difficult, and is it suitable for beginner divers?
The Ghazi dive site is classified with an intermediate difficulty level. This suggests that while it may not be ideal for absolute beginner divers without appropriate supervision or advanced training, it is well-suited for divers who have some experience and are comfortable with wreck diving. You can find more details about the site's characteristics on its dive site page.
When is the best time of year to dive at Ghazi, especially for opportunities to see whale sharks?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year to dive at the Ghazi site, nor does it mention any opportunities for encountering whale sharks. For general guidance on optimal diving seasons and conditions, we recommend consulting our When to Dive resource.
What scuba diving certifications are required or recommended for diving at Ghazi?
Given the Ghazi dive site's classification as intermediate difficulty, divers should possess a certification level that indicates experience beyond basic open water. While specific certifications are not explicitly stated, an Advanced Open Water Diver certification or a specialty in wreck diving would be highly recommended for safely exploring this historical steamship.
What are the typical current conditions and visibility like at the Ghazi dive site?
The provided data for the Ghazi dive site does not include specific information regarding typical current conditions or visibility. As with any dive, it is always advisable to consult with local dive operators or guides for the most up-to-date information on conditions before planning your dive at Ghazi.