HMS BREDAH (POSSIBLY) - South Coast

The HMS Bredah, or what we believe is the Bredah, is an interesting one. It’s shallow, only four metres, but that’s part of its charm. This isn't a dive for coral fanatics, obviously, but if you love history, this site hums with it. We’ve spent hours here, feeling the current tug, imagining the chaos back in 1690 when it blew up. It was a massive loss of life, a real tragedy. What's left is spread out, a scatter of timbers and cannons mostly, but there's a definite hull shape discernible. The wooden planks are dark, almost black, and completely encrusted with mussels and anenomes. Finding a cannon still bolted to the seabed, half-buried, is always a thrill. It's a dark dive, even in bright sunshine, the light struggling to penetrate the silty water, giving it a sombre, reflective mood. We’d suggest going on an incoming tide, as the visibility tends to be better before the current picks up too much. It’s a site that rewards patience, letting your eyes adjust, slowly picking out the details. We love finding the old pottery shards – a small, tangible link to the past.

Location
South Coast, Ireland, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
51.826450, -8.279966
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
4m

Marine Protected Area: Cork Harbour 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 HMS BREDAH (POSSIBLY)

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 HMS BREDAH (POSSIBLY)

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 maximum depth of the HMS Bredah dive site?
The HMS Bredah dive site has a maximum depth of 4 meters. This relatively shallow depth makes it accessible for many divers, though its classification as a dangerous wreck still requires caution.
What kind of marine life and wreck features can divers expect to see on the HMS Bredah?
Divers exploring the HMS Bredah can expect to encounter the remains of a 46m x 12.5m sailing vessel that sank in 1690. As a "Dangerous wreck" that was blown up by accident, its features likely include scattered debris and structural components from its violent end. While specific marine life is not detailed in the provided context, historical wrecks often become artificial reefs, attracting various species over time.
How difficult is diving the HMS Bredah wreck, especially regarding silt and wreck penetration?
Diving the HMS Bredah is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive. Given its classification as a "Dangerous wreck," divers should approach the site with caution and appropriate training. While specific details on silt or wreck penetration are not provided, the nature of a dangerous wreck suggests potential hazards that require careful navigation.
What is the best time of year or tidal condition to dive the HMS Bredah for optimal visibility?
Information regarding the best time of year or specific tidal conditions for optimal visibility at the HMS Bredah dive site is not available in the provided data. For general guidance on dive conditions, you might consult our When to Dive section or local dive operators in Ireland's South Coast.
What diving certifications are required or recommended for diving the HMS Bredah?
Given the HMS Bredah is an intermediate difficulty dive and classified as a "Dangerous wreck," a minimum of an Advanced Open Water certification is generally recommended. For exploring wrecks, especially those classified as dangerous, specialized wreck diving certifications and experience are highly advisable to safely navigate potential hazards.
Are there strong currents or challenging conditions to be aware of when diving the HMS Bredah?
While specific details on strong currents are not provided, the HMS Bredah is categorized as an intermediate difficulty dive and a "Dangerous wreck." This classification suggests that divers should be prepared for potentially challenging conditions. Always consult with local dive operators in Ireland's South Coast for the most current site conditions before diving.