HAZAEL 3 - South Coast

Hazael 3, tucked into Slade Bay, isn't your deep-sea expedition. At a maximum of 2 metres, it’s actually a cracking shore dive, perfect for a relaxed afternoon. The fishing vessel caught fire back in '68 and was beached, still burning, which gives it a real sense of drama even today. We love how the hull is spread out, a skeletal remains against the sandy bottom. You can follow the lines of the old deck, spotting the twisted metal that was once part of the engine room. It’s been down there long enough for the sea to reclaim it, so expect to see plenty of wrasse darting through the rusted plates and blennies peeking out of every crevice. We’d suggest going at high tide; the extra water makes navigating the remains a bit easier and the light penetrates beautifully, picking out the green and brown algae that now carpets the wreck. It’s a site for those who appreciate history and the slow, quiet reclamation of nature, without the need for big depths.

Location
South Coast, Ireland, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
52.133750, -6.907778
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
2m

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 HAZAEL 3

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 HAZAEL 3

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 HAZAEL 3?
The HAZAEL 3 dive site offers a very shallow diving experience, with a typical depth of just 2 meters. This makes it an accessible site for many divers, suitable for those looking for a shallow wreck exploration.
What kind of marine life and underwater topography can divers expect to see at HAZAEL 3?
Divers at HAZAEL 3 can expect to explore the remains of a fishing vessel, which sank on February 21, 1968, after catching fire. The site is classified as a wreck showing a portion of its hull or superstructure, providing an interesting artificial reef structure. While specific marine life details are not provided, wrecks often attract various local species; you can learn more about common species in our wildlife database.
What is the difficulty level of the HAZAEL 3 dive site, and is it suitable for beginners?
The HAZAEL 3 dive site is rated as intermediate difficulty. Due to this rating, it may not be ideal for absolute beginners, but divers with some experience will find it manageable. It's always recommended to dive within your certification limits and comfort zone.
When is the best time of year to dive HAZAEL 3 for optimal conditions and visibility?
Specific data regarding the best time of year for optimal conditions and visibility at HAZAEL 3 is not provided in our current records. We recommend checking local dive conditions closer to your planned dive date for the most accurate information. You can also explore general guidance on when to dive in the region.
What diving certifications are required or recommended to dive at HAZAEL 3?
Given the intermediate difficulty rating of HAZAEL 3, divers should ideally possess at least an Open Water Diver certification along with some practical experience. While no specific advanced certifications are explicitly required, always ensure you are comfortable and qualified for the conditions. It's crucial to dive within your personal training and experience limits.
What are the typical current and water conditions at the HAZAEL 3 dive site?
Our current data for HAZAEL 3 does not specify the typical current or water conditions at the dive site. As conditions can vary, it is always best to consult with local dive operators or check current marine forecasts before planning your dive. This will ensure you have the most up-to-date information for a safe and enjoyable experience.